People with intellectual and developmental disabilities often live in a world that has limited understanding of their differences. This misinformation or lack of understanding can create a sense of stigma that can limit social inclusion and increase disparities with the general population. This stigma or societal labeling often results in discrimination, prejudice and exclusion of people in various forms and often affects how one is accepted or can participate within a community. Research has shown that cultural beliefs, poverty, and lack of education can often impact on one’s perceptions of those with disabilities.
One of the most effective ways to change societal beliefs is through education. By integrating inclusive education programs in schools, children can learn from an early age about intellectual and developmental disabilities. Inclusive education promotes understanding, empathy, and acceptance by allowing students with disabilities to learn alongside their peers. This interaction helps to break down barriers and misconceptions, fostering a culture of inclusivity.
In countries like the United Kingdom and Ireland, individuals with developmental disabilities are much more integrated into the fabric of society. Growing up there, individualism was much more accepted as differences were often seen as positive and enriching to the overall culture. After all England gave us the Beatles, David Bowie, Queen, and the Punk Rock movement, that encouraged differences and challenged societal norms. I always remember taking the train to school and walking up the hill with my friends to catch the bus to Chalfont secondary school. My best friend Francis was always with me as well as her brother Michael who had a profound developmental disability. The bus drivers knew him, the locals on the bus knew him and he was just one of us. Kenton with his dyed orange hair, me with my blue platform shoes, Francis with her usual disheveled and unkempt school uniform and Michael loudly exclaiming that everything was too loud. I see that level of acceptance where I work, where children are exposed to those with developmental challenges and just see them as peers and value them for who they are. On a recent trip back to the UK, the Program Manager sent me a picture of her grandson sitting on the floor sitting in the lap of one of the individuals we serve. They were both smiling and interacting in the most natural way and this is what true integration looks like.
So how do we change society to reflect that level of kindness and acceptance? How do we facilitate that level of change where interactions are occurring in a natural manner and the population that we serve are just peers, regardless of their physical or behavioral challenges.
One of the ways is through increased community integration. As humans we all form preconceived notions about many things including specific cultures, ethnic groups and populations. It is through the process of repeated exposure and interaction with these groups that we learn to remove stigmas developed through misinformation or ignorance. By actively engaging with others that are different than us we often see similarities and realize that we are all just people with similar likes, fears and distinct personalities. At Limitless, our goal is to establish those types of connections within the community by developing on-going activities such as our monthly boys’ and girls’ lunches, running and frisbee clubs and volunteer opportunities that facilitate these interactions with the community and provide lasting connections. Once in the community, our staff help to further facilitate those connections by encouraging the individuals to engage verbally and to interact independently.
Public awareness campaigns can also play a pivotal role in changing societal beliefs. Using various media platforms such as television, social media, and community events, these campaigns can educate the public about the realities and capabilities of developmentally disabled individuals. Highlighting positive stories and showcasing achievements can help to challenge stereotypes and promote a more balanced view.
Encouraging community members to volunteer with organizations that support developmentally disabled individuals can lead to greater understanding and empathy. Through direct interaction, volunteers can see firsthand the strengths and potential of these individuals, which can help to dispel myths and reduce prejudice. Developing and carving out increased opportunities for the disabled to work also helps to reduce stigma and increase awareness that everyone deserves an opportunity to participate in community life.
Changing societal beliefs about developmentally disabled individuals is a multifaceted process that requires education, community involvement, policy advocacy, media representation, and addressing cultural beliefs. By promoting understanding, empathy, and inclusivity, we can create a society where all individuals, regardless of their abilities, are valued and accepted. Through collective efforts, we can break down barriers and build a world that celebrates diversity and promotes equality for all.
BY: Greg Lineham