top of page
Search

"Decoding Disability Terminology: Why Words Matter in the Disability Community"

  • Writer: Grace Mooney
    Grace Mooney
  • Mar 16, 2024
  • 2 min read

In recent times, there has been a surge in discussions surrounding the language used to describe individuals with physical, intellectual, or learning disabilities. While it's heartening to see non-disabled individuals becoming more mindful of their language, there remains a proliferation of terms coined by them that attempt to sanitize or soften the concept of disability. Let's delve into some of these terms—'special needs,' 'handicapped,' and 'handicapple'—and explore why they fall short in accurately representing the disability experience.

  1. Special Needs: Often used to describe individuals with disabilities, the term 'special needs' implies that their requirements are somehow different or 'special' compared to those of others. However, this is a misconception. Individuals with disabilities have the same fundamental needs as anyone else; they may just require different methods or accommodations to meet them. Labeling them as 'special' can inadvertently perpetuate the idea that they are burdensome or dependent, which is far from the truth.

  2. Handicapped: Historically, 'handicapped' was used to describe individuals who were unable to work and resorted to begging on the streets with a cap in hand. This origin highlights the derogatory nature of the term, rooted in stereotypes and stigmatization. Using 'handicapped' to describe someone with a disability perpetuates harmful narratives and fails to acknowledge their inherent worth and capabilities beyond their condition.

  3. Handicapple: This term, coined as a euphemism for 'handicapped,' attempts to emphasize the capabilities rather than the limitations of individuals with disabilities. However, it often comes across as patronizing and artificial. Many within the disability community find terms like 'handicapple' uncomfortable and dismissive, as they fail to address the underlying issues of ableism and discrimination.

So, what is the preferred terminology? 'Disabled' or 'a person with a disability' are widely accepted terms within the disability community. Unlike the aforementioned terms, these phrases were not imposed but rather embraced and advocated for by individuals with disabilities themselves. They acknowledge disability as an inherent aspect of identity and emphasize the importance of person-first language, respecting the individuality and agency of each person.


In conclusion, the language we use to discuss disability matters profoundly. By embracing terms that prioritize empowerment, respect, and inclusivity, we can foster a more inclusive and understanding society for individuals of all abilities. However, it's essential to remember that preferences may vary, and the best approach is always to listen to and respect the perspectives of individuals within the disability community.

 
 
 

1 Comment


pjbassine
Mar 17, 2024

Thanks for the clarification, Grace!

Like
  • Facebook
  • Instagram

Grace

© 2035 by Inner Pieces.

Powered and secured by Wix

Contact

Ask me anything

Thanks for submitting!

bottom of page