Association Between Spirituality and the Valence of Attitudes Toward Persons with Disabilities

Although much research has been carried out to identify the demographic and psychological variables linked to distinctive attitudes toward persons with disabilities (PWD), no known research has measured the association between spirituality and attitudes toward PWD. In this study, a sample of non-disabled undergraduate and graduate university students was surveyed to measure for possible association. Ratings of spiritual involvement and beliefs and intrinsic spirituality were examined in relation to ratings in four attitudinal domains: inclusion, discrimination, gains, and prospects. Higher endorsement of spiritual involvement and beliefs was found to be significantly correlated with more favorable attitudes toward PWD for inclusion and prospects. Higher intrinsic spirituality was found to be significantly correlated with more favorable attitudes toward PWD for inclusion. A significant inverse association was also identified between higher intrinsic spirituality and more favorable attitudes toward PWD for gains. Differences in gender were also examined. Female students reported significantly more favorable attitudes toward PWD for prospects. Male students reported significantly more favorable attitudes toward PWD for discrimination and gains. Implications are discussed in light of the services provided to PWD by faith-based organizations.