The relationship between disability attitudes and professional values among senior nursing students: The mediating role of caring behaviors
Teaching and Learning in Nursing, 2026 (ESCI, Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Derleme
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.1016/j.teln.2026.07.003
- Dergi Adı: Teaching and Learning in Nursing
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), Scopus, CINAHL, EBSCO Education Source, Education Source Ultimate (EBSCO)
- Anahtar Kelimeler: Caring behaviors, Disability attitudes, Professional values, Senior nursing students
- Marmara Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
Background: Positive attitudes toward individuals with a disability are essential for nurses to provide equitable care and reduce social inequalities. This study examined senior nursing students’ attitudes toward individuals with a disability, professional values, and the mediating role of caring behaviors in this relationship. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 709 senior nursing students. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation, multiple linear regression, and structural equation modeling. Results: Disability attitudes were positively associated with professional values (r = 0.532) and caring behaviors (r = 0.586). Caring behaviors showed a significant positive association with professional values and partially mediated the relationship between disability attitudes and professional values (indirect effect β = 0.128). Conclusion: Caring behaviors represent a key educational mechanism through which positive disability attitudes are translated into professional values. Nursing curricula should incorporate empathy-focused and experiential learning strategies to strengthen inclusive and ethical nursing practice.