Bekir Fatih MERAL

Prof. Dr. Bekir Fatih MERAL is a prominent figure at Sakarya University, affiliated with the Faculty of Education as the head of the Department of Special Education. His academic career spans over a decade, focusing on autism spectrum disorders, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and family quality of life.

• Broad research areas include Special Education, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Family Quality of Life, and Psychometric Properties of Assessment Tools.
• He has contributed to international journals such as Research in Developmental Disabilities, Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, and Quality of Life Research.

Research Trends: His recent work explores parental practices in promoting child self-determination, feeding behaviors in autism, and policy comparisons between Turkey and global frameworks like the UN Convention on Persons with Disabilities. He emphasizes cross-cultural and family-centered approaches.

Scientific Awards:

• The Jay Turnbull Fellowship
• Ross and Marianna Beach research award
• AAIDD Student & Early Career Network Academic Excellence Award

Additional Contributions: He has led courses in Intellectual Disability and Autism, Early Childhood Special Education, and Special Education Policies. His grants include TUBITAK 2219 Postdoctoral Scholarships and Erasmus+ funding.