More Myths and Facts

Myths are attitudinal barriers that interfere with the ability of persons with disabilities to have equality. These barriers usually result from a lack of experience and interaction with persons with disabilities. Listed below are some common myths about people with disabilities and the true facts.

Myth Fact

People with disabilities feel more comfortable around other people with disabilities.

This myth may have arisen from the many years of segregated learning and living environments. Years ago it was common to see people with disabilities grouped together. This is no longer the case.

If you do not have a disability, you are insensitive toward people with disabilities.

Everyone will have a disability at some time, be it a broken leg or an impairment that comes with aging. Stereotyping people without disabilities is as wrong as stereotyping people with disabilities.

People with disabilities have problems getting around.

People with disabilities know what they need to get from point A to B and may use a walker, wheelchair, bus, or carpool to get there. Problems only arise when architectural or attitudinal barriers get in the way.

People with disabilities have different goals than people without disabilities.

Because people with disabilities have all types of cultural, social, and economic backgrounds, their goals can be as different as any two persons' goals are.

People with disabilities need to be protected from failing.

People with disabilities have a right to participate in the full range of human experiences including success and

failure.

People with disabilities are usually very sedate and unable to participate in recreational activities.

People with disabilities lead diverse lives and take part in any sport or hobby you can think of including: mountain climbing, kayaking, dancing, horseback riding, scuba diving, racing, snow skiing, and skydiving.