Inclusion in American and Finnish Schools: The Neglect of Youth with Emotional and Behavioral Disorders

Abstract

Youth with emotional and behavioural disorders (EBD) are guaranteed the same right to inclusive education as other students with and without disabilities. While Finland and the United States (U.S.) are committed to the ideals of inclusion, evidence suggests that these students are often excluded. This paper discusses Finnish and U.S policies and practices that identify and ‘push out’ youth with EBD. Additionally, the quality of education in exclusive settings, including Finnish reform schools, U.S. alternative schools and day treatment/residential psychiatric facility schools, as well as (juvenile) correctional facilities in both countries, are discussed. Recommendations are provided for policy and practice that will promote access to inclusive education for these troubled youth.