8 5 Common Myths and Misconceptions About Persons with Disabilities - Page 1

As the world observes Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, an important conversation is unfolding, one that challenges how society measures progress for people with disabilities.

The social context of disability plays a substantial role in the increased violence against people with disabilities.

Ableism is a set of beliefs or practices that lead to discrimination and prejudice towards people with disabilities. It can also be understood as discrimination in favor of able-bodied persons. Ableism beliefs and actions are rooted in the assumption that persons without disabilities are normal, while persons with disabilities somehow need to be “fixed.” This assumption is incorrect, and the first step in eliminating ableism ideologies is through education about disability.

Disability stigmatization is a negative set of beliefs about persons with a disability. This can include social avoidance, stereotyping, discrimination, and can even lead to violence. Stigmatizing disability can cause undue stress and hardships for persons with a disability, and therefore must be fought to be removed. While stigmatization is a larger societal problem that must be dealt with, there are also ways to deal with stigma on a personal level.

War and violence are the main reasons for most of the acquired mental and disability cases worldwide.

The choice to share your disability or not on social media remains a personal choice

Persons with disabilities should not be deterred from being contributors to their communities and extensively productive members of society.

The beliefs associated with the visible difference of people with albinism often result in prejudice. They have also led to bodily and psychological harm and ritual attacks.