Facilitating Attitude Change Toward the Handicapped

Measurement in the shift of 424 normal children’s perceptions of their handicapped peers was determined following their exposure to structured learning experiences of what it would be like to be handicapped. Attitude development and approaches used for attitude change are described. Significant positive shifts were found in children’s perceptions of their handicapped peers’ play capabilities, intelligence level, and self-concept. Attitudes toward mainstreaming remained unchanged. It is suggested that a viable receptivity exists in normal children’s attitude development. The role of the occupational therapist in facilitating positive attitudes is discussed.