The attitude of university students towards people with disability

Abstract

Background: Attitude is a declaration of feeling towards somebody. Understanding these attitudes is crucial, as they influence social inclusion, accessibility, and the overall well-being of individuals with disabilities. University students, being future professionals and societal contributors, play a pivotal role in shaping inclusive perspectives.

Objective: The primary objective of this study was to determine the attitude of university students towards people with disability. The secondary objectives include comparison of attitude towards disability between medical and non-medical students, between male and female and attitude towards disability among students of different academic years.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey (ERC Riphah/RCRS/REC/00624) was conducted on 183 students in which 107 were medical and 76 were non-medical students of Riphah International University. Sample size of 183 was calculated by epitool. Non-disabled university students aged 18-30 years were included in the study. Questionnaire including demographics and attitudes toward disabled persons (ATDP) form A was used. Data was collected using non-probability convenience sampling technique. Response rate for the study was 91.5%. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 23. Mean with SD are reported in result section.

Results: The total score of ATDP questionnaire of 183 students was calculated 98.08±16.741. The mean age of both male and female students was 21.32 years. Medical students showed more positive attitude than non-medical students. Female students held more positive attitude than male students. 1st year students had more positive attitude than other academic years. Mean score of ATDP was 98.08.

Conclusion: This study found that the attitude of university students towards people with disability is moderately positive.