ABSTRACT
A recent survey found that in the US, mental disorders are quite common; 26% of the general population reported that they had symptoms sufficient for diagnosing a mental disorder during the past 12 months. However, many of these cases are mild or will resolve without formal interventions (National Institute of Mental Health [NIMH], 2005). This chapter takes a look back at some of the important historical events that have taken place and led us to where we are today. Also, this historical review shows us that now is a great time to transform the education of children with social, emotional, and behavioral differences. Children with emotional and behavioral disorders historically have been educated in one of two ways: completely included in general education with minimal supports and services or totally excluded from the general education classroom. There were many important events and legal decisions that have led us to where we are today.
