Salience of Disability Cues in Functional Clothing: A Multidimensional Approach

Abstract

This paper provides data on perceptions of functional clothing, augmenting a theoretical framework integrating symbolicinteractionist and cognitive approaches. A self-administered questionnaire was completed by 322 physically disabled university students throughout the nation. One half of the students evaluated line drawings of only one view of each clothing style, whereas the other half rated illustrations presenting an additional view detailing the special, functional feature of the garment. The students responded more negatively to the functional clothing when the special feature was made salient. Factor analyses revealed the multidimensionality of meanings assigned to functional clothing, with evaluative, functional, and noticeability dimensions being most common. The complex, joint effects of sex, onset of disability, and wheelchair usage upon the students' responses point to the problematic nature of identifying common needs among persons with physical disabilities. Theoretical and real world implications are discussed.