In an effort to help destigmatize mental health challenges among students, a recently signed California law allows the term ”emotional disability″ to replace “emotional disturbance” for special education services.
The measure, which takes effect January 1, 2024, does not change the definition of the term and does not alter school-based supports for students with emotional disabilities. Instead, the change requires the use of a ”much more appropriate term.”
New York state has also eliminated the use of the term “emotional disturbance” in special education and has also adopted “emotional disability” as the term to be used.
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