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Spontaneous Representations of Disability and Attitudes toward Inclusive Educational Practices: a Mixed Approach

Author

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  • Alexandra Maftei

    (Alexandru Ioan Cuza University, Iasi, Romania)

  • Alois Ghergut

    (AlexandruIoan Cuza University, Department of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Iasi, Romania)

Abstract

The present study's primary aims were a) to explore non-disabled adults' spontaneous representation of disability and the specific associations related to adults and children with disabilities; to investigate participants' general perception of specific inclusive educational practices and the potential impact of contact with disabled individuals on children. We used a mixed (qualitative and quantitative) approach in a sample of 628 participants aged 18 to 82 (M=28.59, SD=11.50). Our results suggested that most explicit representations of disability were negatively valenced, i.e., people generally used pessimistic and detrimental related words. Psychomotor deficiencies comprised the most frequent disability category associated with disabled adults, while autism was the most frequent disability related to disabled children. Participants considered that the inclusion of physically disabled children (compared to children with intellectual disabilities) in public schools has a more positive effect on non-disabled children. The previous contact with a friend or a family member with a disability significantly and positively impacted the general attitude toward disability and inclusive educational practices. Results are discussed regarding their practical implications for the educational system and specific strategies related to inclusive public policies.

Suggested Citation

  • Alexandra Maftei & Alois Ghergut, 2021. "Spontaneous Representations of Disability and Attitudes toward Inclusive Educational Practices: a Mixed Approach," Postmodern Openings, Editura Lumen, Department of Economics, vol. 12(2), pages 18-39, July.
  • Handle: RePEc:lum:rev3rl:v:12:y:2021:i:2:p:18-39
    DOI: https://doi.org/10.18662/po/12.2/295
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Moriña, Anabel & Carballo, Rafael, 2017. "The impact of a faculty training program on inclusive education and disability," Evaluation and Program Planning, Elsevier, vol. 65(C), pages 77-83.
    2. Shteynberg, Garriy & Leslie, Lisa M. & Knight, Andrew P. & Mayer, David M., 2011. "But Affirmative Action hurts Us! Race-related beliefs shape perceptions of White disadvantage and policy unfairness," Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, Elsevier, vol. 115(1), pages 1-12, May.
    3. Kvaale, Erlend P. & Gottdiener, William H. & Haslam, Nick, 2013. "Biogenetic explanations and stigma: A meta-analytic review of associations among laypeople," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 96(C), pages 95-103.
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    social representation; perception; disability; children; adults;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • I12 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Health Behavior
    • I2 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education
    • O0 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - General

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