Medical students' and allied health care professionals' perceptions toward the mentally retarded population

The purpose of this study was to determine if differences in expectations toward individuals with varying levels of mental retardation exist between medical students themselves and between health care professionals involved with these individuals. There were 136 medical students (52%) and 119 health care professionals (89%) who completed the modified Prognostic Beliefs Scale survey. Medical students demonstrated lower expectations compared to health care professionals. No relationship was found among medical student expectations and selected background variables including a family member with a disability and working with disabled individuals. A curriculum was developed focusing on informing and sensitizing medical students toward the needs of developmentally disabled persons. The response of the students to the program has been outstanding, with a positive change in attitudes and perceptions.