Factors Influencing Attitudes Toward People With Disabilities in Nondisabled Elementary Children: Contact and Empathy (Poster 3)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Seven
  In Poster Session: Contemporary Perspectives in Human Development

Abstract

Despite support and policy for inclusion, negative attitudes toward people with disabilities prevails in society. The study examined factors influencing attitudes toward people with disabilities in nondisabled elementary school children focusing on contact and empathy. A sample of 2279 Canadian nondisabled children were administered scales measuring attitudes toward people with disabilities, contact with such people, and empathy. The results found that except for contact through family membership all types of measured contact (friendship, interaction), and empathy were related to more positive attitudes. Older children and females also influenced the positive attitude. Implications for intervention and research are suggested. The study has expanded research and practice with a vigorous design and specific factors and would contribute to effective intervention.
 

 

Author

• Lily L. Dyson, University of Victoria
  Presenting Author