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

Disability as a Biological Given: Disability is primarily seen as a biological problem by most people, highlighting the medical model of disability.
Problems as Originating from Impairment: When a disabled person faces any kind of problem, the problem is often seen as originating from their impairment, highlighting a lack of social awareness.
The Disabled Person as a Victim: Disabled persons are seen as victims of their circumstances.
Linking it with Self-Perception: The problems of disabled people are often linked with their self-perception, further marginalizing them.
Need for Help: They are perceived as needing help and support, and incapable of autonomy and agency.