Chapter 9: Prosocial Behavior

Altruistic behavior directed towards the disability community is often approached from a place of sympathy and/or pity: “I feel so bad for you!” or “Look at how those children with X condition are “suffering”, I must donate to such a good cause to help them”. How might how “feeling bad” for disabled people be damaging?

Reflecting on the article by Sara Luterman: How might pity or sympathy (that’s often disguised as empathy) impact your work with disabled clients?

How do elements of culture show up in prosocial behavior? HHCC: prosocial behavior, context, and salient identities

What is the relationship between prosocial behavior and socioeconomic status? In other words, how does prosocial behavior relate to issues of classism? HHCC: poverty

What influence does worldview have on one's ability to engage in prosocial behavior?

In what ways could you "socially disrupt" your circles to understand and embrace individuals? HHCC: Mustapha El Akkari's Ted Talk