Study: Interactions with individuals with disabilities boosts empathy

British researchers have found that children who have more contact with individuals with disabilities have more empathy and less anxiety when interacting with such individuals. Even indirect activities, such as observing others interacting with individuals with disabilities, led to positive attitudes. "We have known for some time that integrating children with disabilities into the regular classroom can improve attitudes," study author Megan MacMillan said. "What we have established here is just how much of a difference a greater presence in day-to-day life makes," she added. HealthDay News (8/29) http://consumer.healthday.com/kids-health-information-23/child-development-news-124/briefs-emb-8-29-00-01-bps-children-s-attitudes-towards-disabled-people-improve-with-increased-contact-679590.html