Preschool Children's Understanding of Children with Orthopedic Disabilities and Their Expectations

Summary

The present study investigated whether preschool children (N = 121) had a realistic understanding of the limitations imposed by various orthopedic disabilities. The results have indicated that the preschoolers were aware that orthopedic disabilities may impose some physical limitations. Ss tended to perceive able-bodied children more capable in performing various tasks than disabled children. This evaluative judgment does not necessarily mean that the preschoolers were discriminating against the disabled children, but it may be a reflection of a sense of realism that the able-bodied children have less trouble in doing these tasks than their disabled counterparts. It was suggested that, with increased understanding of the realistic limitations imposed by orthopedic disabilities, children may become less biased toward their disabled peers. This change in attitude would have significant impact on the self-concepts of disabled children.