markmandeno

Tag: mental-health

  • It’s Time to Talk About the Word “Disability”

    I was 39 when I sustained a C5 spinal cord injury. In a moment, life changed, and with it came the wheelchair, the barriers, and—what I didn’t expect—the mirror it held up to my own assumptions.

    Ten years on, I can say this with clarity: One of the the most confronting parts of becoming ‘disabled’ was the moment I realised I had spent my life unconsciously ‘othereing’ people who looked like the person I am today.

    That realisation hit hard. It forced me to admit that I had internalised society’s ableism long before I ever got injured. And now, living in a body marked by that difference, I could finally see just how deep that bias runs.

    We live in a world that consistently and quietly labels anything that diverges from the norm as “less than.” That idea is embedded in our language, our systems, our media—and even in our well-meaning efforts at inclusion. It’s in the word disability itself.

    Let’s stop pretending that word is neutral. It isn’t.

    Break it down: dis-ability. The prefix “dis” implies absence, failure, something broken or wrong. To be “disabled” is, linguistically and symbolically, to be not able. And yet, it’s the term we continue to use—academics, researchers, policy-makers, even advocates.

    We are identified by a word that fundamentally denies our capacity. And we rarely question it.

    We cannot challenge unconscious bias if we keep reinforcing it with the very language we use to define people. We cannot build equity on a foundation that subtly devalues the people we claim to uplift. The word disability is not just a descriptor—it is a barrier. A quiet wall of assumption, pity, fear, and exclusion.

    It’s time we talk about that.

    Because until we name the role that language plays in shaping attitudes and policies, we will keep spinning our wheels in the mud of good intentions.

    This isn’t about political correctness. It’s about power. It’s about who gets to define whom—and how.

    I don’t have the perfect word to replace disability yet. But I know this: if we’re serious about change, we need to be serious about language. Words shape perception. Perception shapes action. And action is what turns inclusion from a nice idea into a lived reality.

    Let’s be brave enough to question even the words we take for granted.

    Let’s start with disability.

  • Aversive Ableism: Exploring Subtle Biases Towards Individuals with Disabilities

    The concept of aversive ableism brings to light the nuanced ways in which bias and discrimination can affect individuals with disabilities. Aversive ableism describes individuals who may not overtly see themselves as prejudiced but demonstrate implicit biases and discomfort towards people with disabilities. This notion challenges us to acknowledge that even those with good intentions can unknowingly hold unconscious prejudices, emphasising the importance of self-reflection and awareness of our attitudes and behaviours.

    Subtle Manifestation of Bias Aversive ableism operates in subtle ways that often go unnoticed by individuals who are unaware of their implicit biases towards people with disabilities. These biases subtly influence daily interactions, attitudes, and assumptions, contributing to the marginalisation and exclusion of individuals with disabilities.

    Example: A hiring manager may unconsciously prefer a non-disabled candidate over a qualified candidate with a disability, assuming the latter may require more accommodations or support.

    Well-Meaning Individuals It is essential to recognise that individuals who consider themselves well-meaning and non-prejudiced may still harbour unconscious prejudices towards individuals with disabilities. The contrast between explicit beliefs and implicit biases underscores the complexity of aversive ableism, underscoring the need for self-awareness and reflection.

    Example: A teacher who genuinely cares about all their students may unknowingly provide fewer opportunities for participation to a student with a disability due to subconscious biases about their capabilities.

    Opportunity for Self-Reflection Acknowledging the presence of aversive ableism offers individuals a chance for introspection. This process involves examining one’s beliefs, assumptions, and actions to identify and challenge any underlying biases towards individuals with disabilities.

    Example: A healthcare provider reflecting on their interactions with patients with disabilities may realise they unintentionally speak louder or slower, assuming the individual has a cognitive impairment.

    Promoting Awareness Increasing awareness about aversive ableism and the prevalence of unconscious biases towards individuals with disabilities can help individuals become more mindful of their attitudes and behaviours. This heightened awareness fosters greater sensitivity, empathy, and understanding towards the experiences of people with disabilities, creating a more inclusive and supportive environment.

    Example: A community organising an event ensures accessibility for all attendees, including those with disabilities, by providing sign language interpreters, wheelchair ramps, and accessible facilities.

    Cultivating Empathy and Respect Through self-reflection and awareness of one’s biases, individuals can cultivate empathy and respect towards individuals with disabilities. By acknowledging and addressing aversive ableism, individuals contribute to building a more inclusive society where all individuals are valued and respected for their unique abilities and contributions.

    In conclusion, recognising aversive ableism involves understanding the subtle biases and discrimination faced by individuals with disabilities, promoting self-reflection, and raising awareness about unconscious prejudices. By fostering self-awareness and empathy, individuals can work towards challenging aversive ableism and creating a more inclusive and equitable society for individuals with disabilities. Let us strive to create a world where everyone is valued and respected, regardless of their abilities.