Exploring young people's attitudes towards disability in Australia

Investigators

Associate Professor Tim Moore, Dr Jen Couch, Dr Sebastian Trew (Institute of Child Protection Studies, Australian Catholic University); Dr Marian Esler (Australian National University)

Funding

Australian National University, with funding from the Commonwealth Department of Social Services

Aims

This project aims to better understand young people's attitudes towards disability, especially focusing on their perceptions of inclusion and the challenges faced by youth with disabilities.

Background

Attitudes towards disability can deeply affect inclusion, peer relationships, and the wellbeing of individuals with disabilities. Although disability rights and inclusion have progressed, societal attitudes still pose barriers to the full participation of people with disabilities.

Australia's Disability Strategy 2021-2031 (ADS) highlights "Community Attitudes" as essential to achieving better outcomes, prompting the Australian Government to fund a longitudinal survey to understand these attitudes and their impacts.

Project details

Research questions

• What are young people's attitudes towards people with disability?
• How do factors like gender, socioeconomic status, and relationships influence these attitudes?
• How do young people perceive disability inclusion across social, educational, and work settings?
• What are the experiences of young people with disability in community, education, and employment contexts?
• How do societal attitudes affect young people with disability in social and professional spheres?
• What improvements would young people suggest for raising disability awareness and fostering inclusion?

Method

Research involves focus groups with young people aged 15-25, with and without disabilities, to explore attitudes, perceptions of inclusion, and personal experiences related to disability.

Projected community impact

We hope that the study will provide insights into youth attitudes towards disability, helping to shape policies and programs that foster a more inclusive society for people with disabilities.

Project timeline

Began in 2024 and in progress

Contact

For more information contact: icps@acu.edu.au