Inclusive Socialization? The Relationships between Parents’ and Their Child’s Attitudes toward Students with Disabilities

Abstract

Promoting social and school inclusion of children with disabilities has been associated with their health-related quality of life. This study aimed to analyze the connection between parents and children’s attitudes toward disabilities as one factor contributing to the inclusion and well-being of individuals with disabilities. Three types of disabilities—i.e., attitudes toward a child with a sensory disability (hearing), a child with an intellectual disability (Down syndrome), and a child with problems with aggressiveness and angry outbursts (behavioral problems)—were examined. A sample of 598 White Italian elementary school students (303 boys and 295 girls) aged 6 to 11 years 33tudes toward students with disabilities, rather than each parent’s attitude, contributed to a better understanding of the child’s attitudes toward students with disabilities. The theoretical and practical implications of these results are discussed.