Perceptions of children's attitudes towards peers with a severe physical disability

Available studies with preschoolers suggest that even at an early age, children without disabilities have formulated certain beliefs about those with disabilities. The current pilot study explores the perceptions of primarily 8-12 year old Mexican-American children in relation to viewing a photograph of a child in a wheelchair versus a child sifting in a kitchen chair. Quantitative results indicated that respondents generally expressed optimistic attitudes regarding the child in the wheelchair's future in relation to work, attending college, marrying and having a family. The child in the wheelchair was also perceived as happy but having fewer friends. Qualitative responses centered around the child in a wheelchair's perceived preoccupation with being in a wheelchair and wanting to walk.