Public Bus Drivers and Social Inclusion: Evaluation of Their Knowledge and Attitudes Toward People With Intellectual Disabilities

Abstract Public bus drivers are a relevant part of the social network supporting people with intellectual disability (ID) in the independent use of public transport as their support can increase self‐determination and social inclusion. A study was undertaken that focused on (1) bus drivers' experiences with people with ID; (2) their knowledge about ID in general; and (3) their attitudes toward people with ID. Assessment of experiences, knowledge, and attitudes are important for the detection of potential psychological and social barriers for community inclusion. Experiences, knowledge, and attitudes were evaluated with a standardized questionnaire for a representative sample of 139 local bus drivers. The survey was conducted in a town in Germany with rural surroundings as part of the Nordhorn Public Transportation Intervention Study aiming to increase the independent use of public buses for people with ID. The authors found that some 19% of the bus drivers had experiences with people with ID in their private lives. Also, that knowledge about ID was rather moderate, differing widely according to specific items. Some drivers saw people with disabilities as passengers who are difficult and who needed more attention. Authors concluded that bus drivers are an essential part of the social support system of persons with ID and that assessment of bus drivers' attitudes, experiences, and knowledge is necessary to develop specific training programs. Valid information, communication, ...
Source: Journal of Policy and Practice in Intellectual Disabilities - Category: Disability Authors: Tags: Original Article Source Type: research