Conceptualization of special needs, identification of groups with special needs and research priorities in this group

Object: This study conducted to identify the target groups of research center for psychology and special needs in psychological, social, spiritual and physical aspects. The study is a qualitative research with grounded theory method. After reviewing the relevant literature, 10 groups were purposed as individuals with special needs and 100 people were selected through a purposeful sampling. These groups included: children, aged people, people with a sensory motor disability, psychiatric patients and mental retards, people with special medical needs. Substance abusers, prisoners, marginated people or minorities, people with low socioeconomic status, pregnant women. Data was collected in semi-structured interviews and then was analyzed with Strauss & Corbin coding manner or continued comparison. Most important domains of special needs in our groups were: family, education, amusement, movement and transportation, building and places (houses and public places), social participation and occupation, treatment and rehabilitation services, and people's attitude toward their problems. "special need" term is related to disability, disability often is due to one's characteristics and obstacles caused from society. There are several barriers in obviating the needs and majority of them are occured by human such as non efficient systems and services, discriminatory policies, prejudice attitudes, etc. in order to enhancing social participation of disabled people and promoting their life styles as equal as other people, the public systems such as places and buildings, houses, transportation, educational and vocational opportunities and socio-cultural life (e.g. sport and amusement equipments) should be available for all people in a equal way and proper to their abilities and needs.