Stigma towards persons with intellectual disabilities remains a significant barrier to their inclusion and access to healthcare. Mental health professionals play a crucial role in providing appropriate support for people with intellectual disabilities, and their attitudes can influence the quality of care and access to mental health services for this population.
This study aims to evaluate the attitudes of Chilean mental health professionals towards individuals with intellectual disabilities. It was conducted with 121 mental health professionals, who completed a questionnaire, assessing five dimensions: discomfort, knowledge of capacity and rights, interaction, sensitivity/tenderness and knowledge of causes.
The analysis identified overall positive attitudes towards individuals with intellectual disability. However, certain concerns persisted, particularly regarding their capacity to handle finances and parenthood. Psychiatrists demonstrated greater knowledge of causes than psychologists. Women reported higher levels of sensitivity/tenderness than men. Previous contact with individuals with intellectual disability was associated with more positive attitudes. Participants expressed more negative attitudes towards individuals with higher support needs.
The authors suggest that although mental health professionals generally exhibit positive attitudes towards individuals with intellectual disability, gaps in knowledge and lingering biases highlight the need for enhanced training. They also recommend that increasing direct contact in clinical practice and promoting interdisciplinary education may help reduce stigma and improve mental health service accessibility for this population.
Attitudes Towards Persons With Intellectual Disability From Mental Health Professionals in Chile
