Question

“I am invisible, understand, simply because people refuse to see me. Like the bodiless heads you see sometimes in the circus sideshows, it is as though I have been surrounded by mirrors of hard distorting glass. When they approach me they see only my surroundings i.e., themselves or figments of their imagination. Indeed everything and anything except me.” (Ellison, 1952 : 3) Mention some of the common features central to the public perception of ‘disability' all over the world.

Hint:

Public perception of disability often stems from lack of knowledge and misinformation. It is important to address these social perceptions.

Answer 1

Biological Determinism: Disability is predominantly viewed as a biological issue, emphasizing the medical framework. Impairment as the Source of Problems: Difficulties encountered by disabled individuals are frequently attributed to their impairment, indicating a deficit in societal understanding. Victimhood: Disabled individuals are often perceived as subject to their circumstances. Self-Perception Linkage: Challenges faced by disabled people are commonly connected to their self-perception, intensifying their marginalization. Dependency Narrative: There is a perception that they require assistance and support, lacking self-direction and capacity for action.