The Effect of Empathy on Stigma Toward Students With Substance Use Disorders in College Settings

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

12-2019

Abstract

This study was to investigate the effect of empathy on stigma toward students with substance use disorders (SUD) among students in college settings and to determine how empathy may influence experiences in interacting with individuals with disabilities, perceived dangerousness of SUD, and disability-related training to influence stigma toward students with SUD in college settings. A quantitative descriptive design utilizing a convenience sample of 178 was used in this study. Measures administered included: the Social Distance Scale, Perceived Dangerousness Scale, and Empathy Scale. Data were analyzed using multiple regression. The final regression model accounted for 50% of the variance in stigma. When controlling for all other predictors in the model, a family member, relative or close friend having alcohol or drug history, perceived dangerousness, and empathy were found to be predictive of stigma toward students with SUD, with perceived dangerousness being the strongest predictor of stigma toward students with SUD. The findings and implications for research and practice in rehabilitation counseling were discussed.

Comments

© 2019 National Rehabilitation Counseling Association

DOI

10.1891/0047-2220.50.4.311

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