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Zamorano S, Santos-Olmo AB, Sánchez-Iglesias I, Muñoz-Lara I, Muñoz M. The stigma of intellectual disability in Spain: a nationally representative survey. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2024; 68:477-490. [PMID: 38263598 DOI: 10.1111/jir.13122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stigma towards people with intellectual disability affects various aspects of their lives, including access to employment, housing, health and social care services. Furthermore, this stigma reduces their social opportunities and is even reflected in laws that diminish their autonomy. Due to the practical significance of this issue, the aim of this research is to explore for the first time the social stigma associated with intellectual disability in a representative sample of the Spanish population. METHOD A cross-sectional quantitative descriptive study was conducted, involving a representative sample of the population (N = 2746). The study includes descriptive analyses and hierarchical regressions to examine various dimensions of stigma, such as attitudes, attributions, and intentions of social distance. RESULTS Medium levels of stigma are found regarding attitudes and attributions towards people with intellectual disability, while levels are medium-low concerning the intention of social distance. The most reliable indicators of stigma across its various dimensions encompass attitudes, attributions, and the intention of social distance. Factors that contribute to lower stigma include knowing someone with an intellectual disability, being willing to discuss intellectual disability with an acquaintance who has it and having a progressive political ideology. People with intellectual disability show more negative attributions towards themselves. Living with a person with an intellectual disability is another predictor of more stigmatising attitudes, but less intention of social distance. Results are mixed regarding age, gender, and educational level. CONCLUSION Combating the stigmatisation of people with intellectual disabilities must include comprehensive actions to address attitudes, attributions and behavioural intentions. Public policies, such as national campaigns and programmes, should include contact with and open conversations about intellectual disability, and sensitivity to sociodemographic variables.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Zamorano
- Department of Personality, Assessment and Clinical Psychology, School of Psychology, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Chair Against Stigma Grupo 5-Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - A B Santos-Olmo
- Department of Personality, Assessment and Clinical Psychology, School of Psychology, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Chair Against Stigma Grupo 5-Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - I Sánchez-Iglesias
- Department of Psychobiology and Behavioral Sciences Methods, School of Psychology, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Chair Against Stigma Grupo 5-Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - I Muñoz-Lara
- Chair Against Stigma Grupo 5-Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - M Muñoz
- Department of Psychobiology and Behavioral Sciences Methods, School of Psychology, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Richa S, Khairallah C, Khoury E, Kassab A, Haddad F, Kerbage H, Richa N, Benmassoud D, Oussedik A, Gernay MM, El Hage W, Mercier M. Social representations of intellectual disability; a comparison between cultures. L'ENCEPHALE 2023; 49:466-473. [PMID: 35970643 DOI: 10.1016/j.encep.2022.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES People with Intellectual disability consistently appear to be one of the most looked-down upon and repressed subgroups of society in many cultures. The main aim of this study was to compare social representations of intellectual disability in its various aspects between different cultures. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study was conducted in four different sites: Beirut-Lebanon, Algiers-Algeria, Tours-France and Namur-Belgium. Participants were asked to complete a questionnaire evaluating social representations of intellectual disability. RESULTS A total of 755 participants consented to take part in the study. Gender only affected social representations in the Lebanese population. Overall, Algerians appeared to have the least positive social representations and Lebanon to have more positive attitudes, while France and Belgium tended to have the most favourable representations. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Findings highlight the imbalance between a European and a non-European country showing the importance of developing tailored interventions to improve general attitudes towards intellectual disability.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Richa
- Facuty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Lebanon
| | - C Khairallah
- Facuty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Lebanon
| | - E Khoury
- Facuty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Lebanon
| | - A Kassab
- Facuty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Lebanon.
| | - F Haddad
- Facuty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Lebanon
| | - H Kerbage
- Facuty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Lebanon
| | - N Richa
- Facuty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University, Lebanon
| | | | - A Oussedik
- Faculty of Medicine, Alger University, Algeria
| | - M-M Gernay
- Faculty of Psychology, Namur University, Namur, Belgium
| | - W El Hage
- Faculty of Medicine, Tours University, France
| | - M Mercier
- Faculty of Psychology, Namur University, Namur, Belgium
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Dekker MR, Hendriks AHC, Frielink N, Embregts PJCM. Public Stigmatization of People With Intellectual Disability During the COVID-19 Pandemic. AMERICAN JOURNAL ON INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2022; 127:485-494. [PMID: 36306409 DOI: 10.1352/1944-7558-127.6.485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the level of discrimination against people with intellectual disability during COVID-19, and assessed stereotypes, levels of familiarity with people with intellectual disability, and personal experiences with COVID-19 as potential correlates. A cross-sectional study was conducted using a large sample from the Dutch population (n = 1,797). Salient stereotype factors of people with intellectual disability were "friendly" and "in need of help," but not "give nuisance." Those respondents who were unfamiliar with people with intellectual disability in real life demonstrated higher levels of discrimination, perceiving them as more of a nuisance and as being less in need of help, in comparison to those who were more familiar. People with intellectual disability were judged by an ambivalent set of stereotypes during the COVID-19 pandemic that were in line with pre-COVID-19 findings and as such seemed to be fairly persistent and robust. There is a pressing need to both raise awareness of stereotypes towards and discrimination against people with intellectual disability via advocacy and education, and to facilitate positive encounters.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexander H C Hendriks
- Alexander H. C. Hendriks, Tilburg University and Radboud University Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Noud Frielink
- Noud Frielink and Petri J. C. M. Embregts, Tilburg University, the Netherlands
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Harriman E, Oyefeso A. Defining quality of life for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders: Challenges within an inpatient population . JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES : JOID 2021; 26:1744629520982836. [PMID: 33501876 DOI: 10.1177/1744629520982836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The concept of Quality of Life (QoL) for people with neurodevelopmental disorders primarily focuses on deinstitutionalisation and community inclusion. This population, however, often presents with comorbid diagnoses and is sectioned to treatment facilities under the Mental Health Act. The aim of this paper is to review the existing literature on QoL and discuss the consideration of this specialised population and the environment when measuring QoL. METHODS Databases were searched using specific inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure literature reviewed was relevant to the defined population. The challenges identified from the literature were categorised into interpersonal and intrapersonal factors. RESULTS A total of 30 articles were retrieved and considered in this review. CONCLUSIONS This paper discusses how these individuals present with different behaviours and opportunities, which subsequently make it difficult to apply existing knowledge of QoL. The need to further examine the QoL in this specific population is discussed.
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Abstract
Purpose of Review This review explores recent literature (from 2017 onwards) to identify current developments related to reducing stigma and increasing acceptance for people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) in their communities across diverse cultures. Recent Findings We identified literature related to experiences of stigma for people with IDD and their families across diverse cultures, as well as current and potential interventions and approaches for promoting acceptance. Summary Although the literature confirms that stigma is still a major barrier to acceptance and inclusion for people with IDD regardless of culture, there appears to be progress in terms of using diverse approaches to support acceptance and belonging. Researchers are also increasingly acknowledging the importance of culture and context in the experience and mitigation of stigma. There remains a need for researchers and practitioners to include people with IDD in identifying and prioritising interventions that promote belonging within their communities.
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Pelleboer-Gunnink HA, van Oorsouw WMWJ, van Weeghel J, Embregts PJCM. Stigma research in the field of intellectual disabilities: a scoping review on the perspective of care providers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2019; 67:168-187. [PMID: 34188898 PMCID: PMC8211133 DOI: 10.1080/20473869.2019.1616990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/05/2019] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Care providers are key agents in the lives of individuals with an intellectual disability (ID). The quality of their support can be affected by manifestations of stigma. This scoping review was conducted to explore studies that provide indications of care providers' stigmatization of people with ID. Methods: A structured search was made in four databases to identify relevant studies in English-language peer-reviewed journals. Records were systematically and independently screened by the researchers. Results: The 40 articles included in this review were mainly conducted in Western countries and used Likert-type self-report measures of explicit attitudes. Stigmatization seemed more distinct concerning people with high support needs. The few studies on public stigma preliminary suggest that staff may also stigmatize people with ID based on other social identities. Regarding the support of structural stigma, staff reported skepticism regarding community inclusion for people with high support needs, and tended to be ambivalent about the protection-or-empowerment balance in the support of people with ID. Possible indications of stigmatization regarding sexuality were found on specific issues, such as self-determination and privacy. Agreement of staff with certain rights did not necessarily lead to staff acting in accordance with such rights. Conclusion: Indications of stigmatization of people with ID by care providers were found. Stigmatizing attitudes might affect the quality of care providers' support. Potential leads for future interventions concern creating awareness, sharing power, addressing diagnostic overshadowing, and providing explicit policy translations. Directions for future research concern strengthening the methodology of studies and enriching the studied topics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah A. Pelleboer-Gunnink
- Department of Tranzo, Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, TheNetherlands
- Dichterbij Innovation and Science, Gennep, The Netherlands
| | | | - Jaap van Weeghel
- Department of Tranzo, Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, TheNetherlands
- Phrenos Centre of Expertise, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Parnassia Group, Dijk en Duin Mental Health Centre, Castricum, The Netherlands
| | - Petri J. C. M. Embregts
- Department of Tranzo, Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, TheNetherlands
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Shpigelman C. A Proposed Framework for Using the Life‐Coaching Process to Enhance the Quality of Life of Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: A Case Study. JOURNAL OF POLICY AND PRACTICE IN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES 2019. [DOI: 10.1111/jppi.12276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Pelleboer-Gunnink HA, van Weeghel J, Embregts PJCM. Public stigmatisation of people with intellectual disabilities: a mixed-method population survey into stereotypes and their relationship with familiarity and discrimination. Disabil Rehabil 2019; 43:489-497. [PMID: 31242402 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2019.1630678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Stigmatisation can negatively affect opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities to participate in society. Stereotyping, a first step in the process of stigmatisation, has been insufficiently explored for people with intellectual disabilities. This study examined the general public's set of stereotypes that is saliently attributed to people with intellectual disabilities as well as the relationship of these stereotypes with discriminatory intentions and familiarity. MATERIALS AND METHODS A mixed-method cross-sectional survey within a representative sample of the Dutch population (n = 892) was used. Stereotypes were analysed with factor analysis of a trait-rating scale, and qualitative analysis of an open-ended question. The relationship between stereotypes and discrimination as well as familiarity with people with intellectual disabilities was explored through multivariate analyses. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Four stereotype-factors appeared: "friendly", "in need of help", "unintelligent", and "nuisance". Stereotypes in the "nuisance" factor seemed unimportant due to their infrequent report in the open-ended question. "Friendly", "in need of help", "unintelligent" were found to be salient stereotypes of people with intellectual disabilities due to their frequent report. The stereotypes did not relate to high levels of explicit discrimination. Yet due to the both positive and negative valence of the stereotypes, subtle forms of discrimination may be expected such as limited opportunities for choice and self-determination. This may affect opportunities for rehabilitation and might be challenged by protest-components within anti-stigma efforts.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONThere is currently sparse input for anti-stigma campaigns regarding people with intellectual disabilities.Anti-stigma interventions may benefit from adopting protest elements: education of the general public about inequalities that are experienced by people with intellectual disabilities.Especially support staff should be informed about the experienced and/or anticipated stigma of people with intellectual disabilities.As a way of opposing stigma, support staff should empower people for example by conducting strategies to disclose their (intellectual) disabilities.People with intellectual disabilities can challenge stigma by learning to tell a positive narrative on the lives they lead, using their strengths and coping with their limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah A Pelleboer-Gunnink
- Department of Tranzo, Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands.,Dichterbij Innovation and Science, Gennep, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap van Weeghel
- Department of Tranzo, Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands.,Phrenos Centre of Expertise, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Parnassia Group, Dijk en Duin Mental Health Centre, Castricum, The Netherlands
| | - Petri J C M Embregts
- Department of Tranzo, Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
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James JS. Beliefs about intellectual disability among employees at a state facility and undergraduate students: An exploratory analysis. JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH IN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES 2019; 32:51-60. [DOI: 10.1111/jar.12501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2017] [Revised: 04/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Cipriani G, Danti S, Carlesi C, Di Fiorino M. Aging With Down Syndrome: The Dual Diagnosis: Alzheimer's Disease and Down Syndrome. Am J Alzheimers Dis Other Demen 2018; 33:253-262. [PMID: 29504408 PMCID: PMC10852513 DOI: 10.1177/1533317518761093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with Down syndrome (DS) enjoy a longer life expectancy now than they ever have before and are therefore at greater risk of developing conditions associated with aging, including dementia. OBJECTIVES To explore the phenomenon of dementia in DS. METHODS Medline and Google Scholar searches were conducted for relevant articles, chapters, and books published until 2017. Search terms included Alzheimer's disease, cognitive impairment, dementia, DS, and trisomy 21. Publications found through this indexed search were reviewed for further references. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Virtually, all subject aged 35 to 40 show key neuropathologic changes characteristic of Alzheimer's disease, but only a part of them show clinical signs of dementia, usually around the age of 50 years. Early signs of dementia in people with DS may be different from those experienced by the general population. Failure to recognize this can delay diagnosis and subsequent interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Cipriani
- Neurology Unit, Hospital of Versilia, Lido di Camaiore, Lucca (LU), Italy
- Psychiatry Unit, Hospital of Versilia, Lido di Camaiore, Lucca (Lu), Italy
| | - Sabrina Danti
- Clinical and Health Psychology Unit, Hospital of Pontedera, Pontedera (PI), Italy
| | - Cecilia Carlesi
- Neurology Unit, Hospital of Versilia, Lido di Camaiore, Lucca (LU), Italy
| | - Mario Di Fiorino
- Psychiatry Unit, Hospital of Versilia, Lido di Camaiore, Lucca (Lu), Italy
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Szumski G, Firkowska-Mankiewicz A, Lebuda I, Karwowski M. Predictors of success and quality of life in people with borderline intelligence: The special school label, personal and social resources. JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH IN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES 2018; 31:1021-1031. [DOI: 10.1111/jar.12458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Grzegorz Szumski
- Department of Educational Sciences; The Maria Grzegorzewska University; Warsaw Poland
| | | | - Izabela Lebuda
- Institute of Psychology; University of Wroclaw; Wroclaw Poland
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12
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Reid DH, Rosswurm M, Rotholz DA. No Less Worthy: Recommendations for Behavior Analysts Treating Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities with Dignity. Behav Anal Pract 2018; 11:71-79. [DOI: 10.1007/s40617-017-0203-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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Werner S. Can interpersonal contact help improve attitudes toward soldiers with intellectual disability? An Israeli study. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2017; 61:1162-1173. [PMID: 29154488 DOI: 10.1111/jir.12439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2016] [Revised: 09/15/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been argued that interpersonal contact is the best intervention for reducing negative attitudes and discrimination toward individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID). In Israel, the Equal in Uniform project makes it possible for individuals with ID to serve alongside soldiers without ID in ordinary military units in the Israeli Defense Forces. The project provided the opportunity to examine the effect of contact on the attitudes of soldiers without ID. METHODS Data analyses are based on data collected from 220 soldiers without ID via a self-administered questionnaire based on the Multidimensional Attitudes Scale. Of these, 138 were in contact with soldiers with ID as part of the project. RESULTS A mediation model showed that the impact of contact with a soldier with ID on withdrawal behaviour was mediated by cognitive attributions and negative affect. Contact was directly associated with prosocial behaviour. DISCUSSION Results support the importance of contact between soldiers with and without ID to bring about improved attitudes toward the former.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Werner
- Paul Baerwald School of Social Work and Social Welfare, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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Clapton NE, Williams J, Jones RSP. The role of shame in the development and maintenance of psychological distress in adults with intellectual disabilities: A narrative review and synthesis. JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH IN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES 2017; 31:343-359. [PMID: 29124850 DOI: 10.1111/jar.12424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Neil E. Clapton
- North Wales Clinical Psychology Programme School of Psychology Bangor University Bangor UK
| | - Jonathan Williams
- Complex Disabilities Service Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board North Wales UK
| | - Robert S. P. Jones
- North Wales Clinical Psychology Programme School of Psychology Bangor University Bangor UK
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Araten-Bergman T, Werner S. Social workers' attributions towards individuals with dual diagnosis of intellectual disability and mental illness. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2017; 61:155-167. [PMID: 27283246 DOI: 10.1111/jir.12300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2015] [Revised: 02/15/2016] [Accepted: 05/06/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The present study aimed to explore the applicability of the attribution model to social workers' attributions towards clients with dual diagnosis of intellectual disability and psychiatric illness. Specifically, the study examined the relations between social workers' attribution of responsibility, causality, stereotypes of dangerousness, their emotional reactions and behavioural reactions towards clients with dual diagnosis. METHOD Social workers (N = 279) completed questionnaires measuring attributions of responsibility, causation and dangerousness, and reported on their emotional and behavioural reactions to clients diagnosed with DD. RESULTS Most social workers reported high levels of helping behaviours. The strongest predictor of discriminatory behaviours was the stereotype of dangerousness. Social workers who reported feeling less anger and more pity towards clients with DD tended to report higher levels of helping behaviour. But contrary to attribution theory, fear and anger did not predict discriminatory behaviours. CONCLUSION The results are discussed in relation to the core values of social work and to professional identity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - S Werner
- Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Paul Baerwald School of Social Work and Social Welfare, Jerusalem, Israel
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