Public knowledge and attitudes regarding children with disabilities, their experience and support in Bhutan: a national survey

ABSTRACT

Data were collected from heads of households across Bhutan to gain insights regarding children with disabilities up to 18 years in Bhutan. Fieldwork was conducted by local enumerators, trained by researchers from the UK who analysed and interpreted the data. Results indicate that whilst there are largely positive attitudes towards children with disabilities in Bhutan, the majority of respondents conceptualized disability narrowly and were pessimistic about such children’s ability to lead full lives. Households including children with disabilities were less positive than others concerning the ways in which children are regarded and supported in their communities. Fatalistic views related to beliefs in karma were noted and influenced expectations regarding what children with disabilities might achieve. More positive attitudes are held by younger people and those more highly educated. Attitudes and expectations have had a negative effect in restricting access to educational and social inclusion for many children with disabilities.

KEYWORDS:

• Bhutan
• disability
• households
• attitudes

Acknowledgements

As identified above, this research was funded by UNICEF Bhutan: this does not imply endorsement by UNICEF of the views expressed. The opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the policies or views of UNICEF. Sincere thanks are extended to Sonam Tshering at Bhutan Interdisciplinary Research and Development for his expertise and support in carrying out this study.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This research was funded by the United Nations’ Children’s Fund and carried out under UNICEF Bhutan Institutional Contract No.43183260.

Notes on contributors

David Preece

David Preece is Associate Professor within the Centre for Education and Research: he has recently led a project supporting families living with autism in south-east Europe, and has been involved in research in a number of international contexts.

Jane Murray

Jane Murray is Associate Professor within the Centre for Education and Research; she has conducted research in a number in European and Asian contexts.

Richard Rose

Richard Rose is Professor of Inclusive Education. In recent years he has conducted research in several parts of the world including Ireland, India, Malta, Sierra Leone and Hong Kong.

Yu Zhao

Yu Zhao works as an independent researcher after completing her doctoral research concerning children with autism at the University of Northampton.

Philip Garner

Philip Garner was formerly Professor of Education at the University of Northampton and is now Professor of Education at Brunel University London, where he continues to undertake research across a range of international settings.