Investigation of the Attitudes of Healthcare Professionals towards Disabled Women in Terms of Gender Perceptions

Abstract

Background: Gender inequality causes women to be exposed to discrimination in many fields. Gender discrimination against women affects disabled women more deeply. Prejudiced and negative attitudes of healthcare professionals may prevent disabled women from receiving adequate health services. Objective: This study aimed to examine the attitudes of healthcare professionals towards women with disabilities in terms of gender perception. Methods: The sample of this descriptive, cross-sectional study consisted of 234 healthcare professionals. Research data were collected using the Descriptive Information Form, Gender Role Attitudes Scale (GRAS), and Disabled Women Attitude Scale (ADWS). Results: The mean age of the participants was 36.60±8.27, and the average professional working time was 172.23±94.59 months. Of them, 60.7% were women, 34.2% were nurses, 40.6% worked in secondary healthcare institutions, and 31.6% had a disabled relative. The mean total score of GRAS was 54.06±9.61, and ADWS was 62.42±13.79. GRAS and ADWS mean scores were higher in women. The mean GRAS score was higher in university graduates and those working 21 years or more. The mean ADWS score was higher in individuals who do not have a disabled relative. Additionally, there was a low positive correlation between GRAS and ADWS mean scores (p