From exclusion through segregation to inclusion

In general, the major population had always to deal with its relationship to individuals (and groups) with special needs (various kinds of disabilities etc.). In literature, we often encounter the periodization of society's approaches to these persons as a way from mostly negative approach (exclusion, segregation, discrimination...) to the positive and welcoming attitude. In fact, there were rather the certain prevailing tendencies in society's attitudes towards the disadvantaged individuals or groups in specific historical stages, although the range of behavior manifestations towards these people has always been more varied.

Education of individuals with SEN started in systematic way since 18th century - but as a segregative form of schooling and care. The following period is sometimes referred to as Rehabilitation approach. The connection of treatment with upbringing and education was characteristic especially for period of the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries and it was the time of bulding large facilities of institutional care.

So called Preventive and integrative approach was implemented in many countries after the World War II, in relation of human rights movement. Integration of persons with special needs into the major society was undoubtedly very progressive tendency, but only a part of these people had been able to meet expectations and norms of the majority. In the name of prevention, we have to deal with frequent termination of pregnancy of a fetus with disability, and there are many other ethics issues that remain unresolved to this day like still prevailing medical view on people with special needs and their social stigmatization (labeling, etc.).