The effect of “initiating”; on communication apprehension and other variables in initial interactions between ablebodied persons and persons with a disability

This study examined whether or not a conversation initiated by an apparently disabled person would affect ablebodied persons’ perceptions and behavior in that interaction. In general, this study revealed ablebodied people were less apprehensive, more talkative, more attracted to the other, more satisfied with the interaction and entertained more positive thoughts in interactions initiated by an apparently disabled person than when it was not. This study is significant, in part, because interactions between ablebodied and persons with a disability are often marked by discomfort and avoidance. Initiation appears to be a useful strategy that people with a disability can employ to facilitate initial interactions. It is suggested that this tactic and others undergo further testing.