Families of children with disabilities have been the subject of a number of myths, some of which have been introduced and promulgated by researchers influenced by cultural norms that may incline them to ask questions in particular ways and which may result in the institutionalization of ideas and methods, rather than subjecting established beliefs…

Background: Attitudes to the sexual expression of adults with an intellectual disability (ID) are one reflection of the inclusiveness of a community. Our capacity to measure attitudes towards this important aspect of adult life is limited by the lack of an appropriate instrument. The aim of this study was to continue the development of a recently…

Knowledge about Down syndrome and attitudes toward the inclusion of children with Down syndrome were examined in 2,053 community members and 538 experienced teachers. Both groups displayed reasonably accurate knowledge. However, they significantly underestimated life expectancy. Around 20% of each group believed the regular classroom was the best…

A total of 274 preservice teacher education students were surveyed at the beginning and end of a one-semester unit on Human Development and Education which combined formal instruction with structured fieldwork experiences. The latter included interviewing community members regarding their knowledge of Down syndrome and opinions on inclusive…