Medical Students' Knowledge and Attitudes Towards Intellectual Disabilities
Author Information
Author(s): Tarzi Gabriel, Yip Alyssa, Jiwa Muhammad Irfan, Thakur Anupam, Mishra Soumya, Koch Laura, Mendoza Olivia, Perera Amandi, Mckenzie Lachina, Lunsky Yona
Primary Institution: Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, University of Toronto
Hypothesis
What are the experiences, attitudes, and knowledge of Canadian medical students regarding intellectual and developmental disabilities?
Conclusion
Many Canadian medical students lack the knowledge and skills needed to adequately care for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, but most are interested in further learning opportunities.
Supporting Evidence
- Students did not feel competent obtaining clear histories from people with IDD.
- Most students were not confident they could provide quality care to this population.
- Students with prior IDD experiences felt more knowledgeable and interested in caring for this population.
Takeaway
Medical students in Canada often feel unprepared to care for people with disabilities, but they want to learn more about it.
Methodology
A 24-item survey assessed the experiences, attitudes, knowledge, skills, and future interest of Canadian medical students regarding IDD.
Potential Biases
Responses may vary due to lack of a clear definition of IDD provided to participants.
Limitations
Potential selection bias and limited representation of French-speaking medical students.
Participant Demographics
Over half of respondents were between 20 and 25 years of age, and the majority identified as women.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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