Encouraging Change in Attitudes Toward People with Disabilities Through Undergraduate Leisure Studies and Recreation Courses

Educators in leisure studies and recreation have an obligation to enlighten students and discourage negative attitudes toward groups that traditionally experience discrimination. Research clearly demonstrates societal prejudice against people with disabilities and suggests that these biases affect and reduce the quality of life of these individuals. While college age students are capable of these prejudices, their negative attitudes can be altered. College classes can be an avenue for addressing negative attitudes toward people with disabilities. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the methods available to leisure studies and recreation educators to discourage negative attitudes toward people with disabilities. Additionally, results of a study which sought to improve attitudes toward people with disabilities by using multiple methods of instruction within a recreation course will be discussed.