Psychological Factors That Foster or Deter the Disclosure of Disability by University Students

Abstract

Despite the increased number of students with disabilities attending university compared to a few decades ago, many students do not declare that they have a disability, reducing their chances to receive support when it is needed. Here, some of the studies investigating the factors that influence disclosure of disability are reviewed. Psychological factors related to identity, stigma, self-worth, and self-awareness are identified as the most important factors in supporting the decision to disclose a disability. Early support for these dimensions is important and should be provided as early as possible in order to facilitate the disclosure and help-seeking of university students with disabilities.

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