Social work students’ attitudes, self-efficacy, and concerns about clients with developmental and psychiatric disabilities in the UAE

ABSTRACT

This study examined the attitudes, self-efficacy beliefs, and concerns of social work students in relation to working with clients with developmental disabilities and psychiatric (mental health) issues in the UAE. A four-part survey questionnaire—comprising Participants’ Background Information, Attitudes, Self-Efficacy, and Concerns about working with clients—was used to collect data. The data were analyzed using Descriptive statistics, t-tests, Regression, and ANOVA procedures. The results showed that participants’ attitudes were less positive. They also reported low Self-efficacy beliefs and moderate-high concerns about working with these client groups. Some demographic variables (e.g. training) influenced attitudes and Self-efficacy. Implications and recommendations relating to curriculum, teaching/course delivery and practice are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• Disability & mental health
• attitudes
• self-efficacy
• social work students
• United Arab Emirates

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Correction Statement

This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Ahmed Bawa Kuyini

Dr. Ahmed Bawa Kuyini is Associate Professor of Social Work and Manager of the Master of Social Work Program at RMIT University, Melbourne Australia. He has previously worked at the UAE University and also the University of New England Australia. His research focuses on Disability, Special Needs and Inclusion (Educational & Social), Migration & Refugees, and Social Work Education. He has published in education and social work journals on inclusive education, disability & rehabilitation, refugees & migration.

Hughlett Omris Powell

Dr. Hughlett Omris Powell is Assistant Professor in the Department of Social Wellbeing at United Arab Emirates University (UAEU). He joined the university in August 2012, after more than 20 years as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Prior to joining the Social Work Department, he also taught social work on both undergraduate and graduate levels. Dr. Powell’s clinical experience includes work in Child Welfare; School Social Work; Forensic Social Work; and Psychiatric Social Work.

Satish Krishnan Nair

Dr. Satish Krishnan Nair is Assistant Professor in the Department of Social Wellbeing at United Arab Emirates University (UAEU). He joined the university in 2014 and currently serves as the Chair of the department’s Learning Outcomes Assessment Committee. Prior to joining UAEU, he spent 14 years as the founder and director of a social work training and research company in Colorado, USA.