Three semi-structured focus group interviews were conducted with twelve schoolchildren, aged 13–15 years for the purpose of exploring the knowledge and attitudes towards disability of young people within Moldova. These interviews focussed on different aspects of disability and community integration.
The study identified three themes:
- Knowledge and understanding of disability. The young people's knowledge was limited and framed by the medical model of disability;
- Attitudes towards community integration. A bias against long-term care institutions, but differing views regarding integration; and
- Perceptions of barriers to community integration: (i) Cultural barriers. Negative, even hostile attitudes towards disability; (ii) Policy barriers. Poor support services; and (iii) Physical barriers. Ongoing issues regarding accessibility.
People with disabilities in Moldova experience negative cultural attitudes linked to an outdated conception of disability itself. There are inadequate community support services and infrastructure which act as barriers to inclusion.