Adolescent characteristics associated with acceptance of handicapped peers

This study examined the relationship between characteristics of nonhandicapped adolescents and their attitudes toward the handicapped. Forty-one nonhandicapped youngsters completed sociometric evaluations of their physical education classmates. The class of eighty included eleven learning-handicapped students. Ratings were then analyzed with descriptive student data. Characteristics which were significantly associated with acceptance of the handicapped included gender, ethnicity, chronological age, school achievement, moral development, popularity, and overall peer acceptance. Socioeconomic status, physical ability, and length of association did not appear related to student attitude. Implications for placement and intervention are discussed.