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Attitudes Toward Individuals With Disabilities: The Effects of Age, Gender, and Relationship

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  05 July 2012

Jason J. Barr  and
Kristi Bracchitta
Jason J. Barr*
Affiliation:
Monmouth University, USA
Kristi Bracchitta
Affiliation:
College of Mount Saint Vincent, USA
*
ADDRESS FOR CORRESPONDENCE: Jason J. Barr, PhD, Associate Professor & Chair, Educational Leadership, School Counseling & Special Education, Monmouth University, 400 Cedar Avenue, West Long Branch, NJ 07764, United States. Email: jbarr@monmouth.edu
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Abstract

Attitudes toward individuals with disabilities are influenced by the amount of contact one has with such individuals. This research investigated if the relationship a person has with individuals with disabilities is associated with positive attitudes more so than mere contact with such individuals. Increased contact with friends with disabilities and activities with individuals with disabilities were associated with more positive altitudes. Contact with relatives and classmates with a disability was not associated with more positive attitudes. Age and gender were found to moderate these relationships. Contact with friends with disabilities increased positive attitudes for younger but not older participants. Contact with classmates with disabilities decreased positive attitudes for males but not females. This research can help us better understand disability-related bias.

Keywords

disabilitiesattitudesgender differencesintergroup contact theory
Type
Research Article
Information
Journal of Relationships Research , Volume 3 , December 2012 , pp. 10 - 17
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2012

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