TABLE XVI

Mean Scores on Impact Survey Rating of Satisfaction by Gender

Remembering that a score of 5 was defined for the participants as “things are excellent,” the ratings presented in Table XVI reflect very high levels of satisfaction in most areas. Areas of highest satisfaction include “your children,” “your expectations for the future,” and interestingly “your job skills.” The latter is noted because at the same time “financial status” received the lowest rating of all areas. There also appear to be differences in the perceptions of males and females with the females giving lower ratings to “marriage,” and “financial status,” while giving higher ratings in the areas of “home,” “physical health,” and “overall happiness.”

The data in Table XVI and Chart 9 show clearly the overall high level of satisfaction shown by the participant group. The lowest mean scores fell into non-educational areas, physical health and financial status. The third lowest score came in the rating of their education but surprisingly it was accomp anied by high ratings in parenting, job skills and selfconcept. The scores in the area of “overall happiness” and “expectations for the future” had an average rating falling just below “things are excellent.”

It is clear from this data that the group as a whole is very optimistic and self-confident. The latter variable tapped the same area as a previously discussed question regarding the results of having received an outstanding student award. That item, “improved self confidence” was checked by 88 percent of the total group, 88 percent of the females and 90 percent of the males. These present two strong indicators that high self-confidence may be one of the most significant outcomes of ABLE involvement. Data from the preceding table are presented in graphic form in Chart 9 on the following page.