Demystifying Disability Chapter 1

According to the author, disability is dehumanizing.

• always

• sometimes

• never

Answer explanation

"I struggle with the idea that acknowledging the existence of disability is somehow dehumanizing... These describe parts of what makes a person whole."

How does one note an individual's association with a particular culture?

• Using Identity-First Language

• Using Person-First Language

• Using an uppercase letter

• Using a lowercase letter

Answer explanation

IFL acknowledges disability as a part of what makes a person who they are, including their connection to a particular community.

Uppercase letters are often used to indicate a cultural identity, whereas lowercase letters refer to a physical state of being. Some people use both at the same time.

According to the author, which of the following is always inappropriate?

• Referring to an individual in terms of their disability.

• Referring to an individual in terms of their culture.

• Referring to an individual in terms of their medical/educational diagnosis.

• Referring to an individual in terms of their mobility equipment.

Answer explanation

Always use the terms an individual prefers (IFL or PFL).

Using "a Down Syndrome person" or a "muscular dystrophy person" is inappropriate while a "bipolar person" or "dyslexic person" may be appropriate.

Never refer to an individual according to their mobility equipment (.e.g., "wheelchair person).

According to the author, what terms should you say instead of "disabled?"

• Handi-capable

• special needs

• twice exceptional

• nothing

  (say 'disabled')

Answer explanation

Don't "dance around" the word "disability."

Ask what individuals prefer to be called.

In a profession which has metrics based on the bell curve, what do we do with the term "normal?"

Answer explanation

What are the functions of labels?

What assumptions do we make when we use standards?

How does this statement make you feel?

"Don't be a well-intentioned individual speaking outside of your purview."

• scared to speak

• gently reminded

• curious & questioning

• affirmed

Answer explanation

There is not 100% consensus on these ideas. Get explicit permission before using any of these terms.