The relationship between disability attitudes and professional values among senior nursing students: The mediating role of caring behaviors

Abstract

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 b = 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. (c) 2026 Organization for Associate Degree Nursing. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights are reserved, including those for text and data mining, AI training, and similar technologies.