Disabled Social Work Students’ Experiences of Stigma in Higher Education

The number of students identifying as having a disability is increasing in the United States, but students still struggle with stigmatization and barriers to inclusive education. This study explored the ways stigma, self-stigma, and experiences of oppression related to disability were experienced by disabled social work students in the United States. Seventeen social work students self-identifying as disabled participated in qualitative interviews. The research question focused on these students’ experiences with stigma in attending higher education. Themes related to internal stigma, external stigma, and fighting stigma were identified. Participants reported experiencing stigma from individuals and in their social work education programs. Based on the study’s findings, implementing antiableist education programs requires active strategies and cultivating a holistic culture that supports students with disabilities. Additionally, social work students with disabilities can be assets to their peers, faculty, and colleagues as a result of their knowledge and expertise in navigating ableist environments.