Subjective nearness-to-death and negative attitudes toward persons with disability: Attachment patterns moderate

Death Stud. 2020;44(5):312-318. doi: 10.1080/07481187.2018.1544949. Epub 2018 Dec 31.

Abstract

We examined whether subjective nearness-to-death is associated with negative attitudes toward people with disabilities, and whether attachment patterns moderate this connection. A total of 462 Israeli adults, average age 57 years, completed scales measuring subjective nearness-to-death, negative attitudes toward people with disability, and attachment patterns. High levels of subjective nearness-to-death were associated with negative attitudes toward people with disability, and attachment patterns were significant moderators. Findings point to the theoretical importance of both perceptions of death and personal resources for coping with subjective nearness-to-death in relation to attitudes toward individuals with disabilities.

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological*
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Attitude to Death*
  • Disabled Persons*
  • Female
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Humans
  • Israel
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Object Attachment*