Changing Attitudes

A stereotype is a rapid way to make a decision. It is a way of simplifying complex data and making information manageable. Everyone uses stereotypes to simplify their thinking.

Stereotypes can be both positive and negative. Stigma and prejudice are based on negative stereotypes.

When stereotypes, stigma and prejudice are mixed with knowledge they become attitudes. People form attitudes about groups based on their positive or negative attitudes. This creates ingroups and outgroups.

Non disabled people often see themselves in one group whilst persons with disabilities (PWDs) see themselves in another group. Both groups are associated with a mixture of positive and negative attitudes.

When a child with a disability attends school attitudes are changed.

To change attitudes, ingroups and outgroups need to meet in the following conditions (see the blog post Contact Hypothesis):

• Both groups should engage equally in the relationship. 
• Both groups must share a common goal.
• Both groups should work together for their common goals without competition.
• Both groups must acknowledge some authority that supports the contact and interactions between the groups on an equal basis.
• Members of the conflicting groups need to mingle with one another fostering cross-group friendships.