However, ableist language can be harmful to people with disabilities.
What Is Ableist Language?
Ableism is centered around the notion that people with disabilities are imperfect and need fixing.
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At its core,ableism is a form of discrimination.
This key in of disability may affect the entire body or a certain body part.
This bang out may be used to describepeople who are neurodivergent.
For example, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition involving obsessive thoughts and ritualistic behaviors.
But we use this phrase colloquially about everyday things.
Stupid, retarded, etc.
Dumb
Crazy, nuts, psycho, etc.
I’m so OCD.
I’m enamored with X.
I’m unfocused.
Boring, unexciting
Unknowledgeable
You didn’t hear me.
Tips for Changing Ableist Language
Change is challenging, but it is possible!
Here are some tips to integrate more respectful words into your personal lexicon.
Get Support From Friends
Social supportcan help us cope with the adversities we face.
Then, ask them to hold you accountable and point out when you slip up.
If they’re up for the same, help them out by making it a two-way street.
Once that’s gone successfully, create a longer challenge.
Before you know it, those words will be history!
Praise yourself and others for each time they use a non-ableist alternative word.
If it takes you years to make the change, that’s totally acceptable.
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