Why are people demeaning to the disabled? Where do we learn this behavior in our...

KLJ08

New member
...culture? I'm sorry, this is not just some rhetorical question, I would really like to understand this. I'm blind myself and I get this on yahoo, I get it in the community, and I and others get it just about everywhere we go.

I, personally, act confident, I talk competently, I have graduated from college with a 3.5 GPA, I live 100% independently from my family, and I do just fine in life.

I am not afraid to ask for help when I do need it and there are times, but honestly, what drives you to think I am inferior because I can't see? Seriously?

I understand that people fear what they don't know. But what keeps you from exploring something new and getting to know and understand it?

Secondly, why do you project your fears into a situation, for example, you can't imagine life as a blind person so you think it is so horrible, therefore you pitty me or think I couldn't possibly be safe nor competent. You talk to me in that silly little voice you'd use when talking to a 6 month old baby.

I want to know, personally, why you do this? And I promise I won't send you hate mail for being honest. This is a question with pure curiosity behind it. I want to know what has influenced you to think this way. And if you don't think this way, then huge thanks to you, but keep your notes of sympathy off. I'm only looking for constructive answers here. Thanks!
Most young kids are curious but innocently so. They ask questions without making judgements. I've noticed that. So, no I don't believe it's just that people haven't "grown up" I kind of wish it was that way. These biases are something we'd be better off not learning and stay somewhat child-like in our outlook.
 
I have a 10 year old autistic son who,at times,acts completely inappropriately for his age.I cannot believe the nasty looks and remarks that I've gotten.One time I finally told a woman that she really needn't stare...he is special needs.(She told me,'Well,he does not LOOK it!!')
*sigh*
 
I think it has to do with the ingrained belief that you are lacking one thing that most others take for granted, therefore you must be lacking in in other areas, such as ability to communicate as an adult. It goes back to the way people have been raised to conform, so when someone is seen as different they are thoughtlessly patronized and pitied. This has to suck a lot, but please be a bit patient and direct with the un-educated among us. Most folks will get it if you explain it to them. Good luck!
 
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