Impact of Empowerment and Its Influence on the Academic Performance of University Students With Disabilities

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the level of empowerment and its influence on the academic performance of university students with different types of disabilities. Theoretical Framework: The inclusion of students with disabilities in university environments has increased in recent years thanks to laws and policies that promote equal opportunities. Therefore, it is important to know variables that enhance the academic success of these students. One of the relevant constructs in the academic context is empowerment. Method: The sample consisted of 123 students from the University of Alicante, with motor, intellectual, and sensory disabilities. The Spanish adapted version of the Rogers, Chamberlin, Ellison, and Crean (1997) Scale was used to measure empowerment. Results and Discussion: The results found statistically significant differences in the level of empowerment, with higher empowerment among students with motor disabilities. Likewise, they revealed a positive relationship between academic performance and empowerment. Research Implications: These findings suggest the need to implement educational strategies that strengthen the empowerment of students with disabilities, recognizing that this factor positively influences their academic performance and long-term personal and professional development. Originality/Value: This work emphasizes the need for intervention programs to include the development of empowerment as a central objective. This can be done through activities that foster self-esteem, autonomous decision making, setting realistic goals, and strengthening coping skills.