Often times for those without a disability, addressing the subject constructively in conversation is difficult for many reasons.
Image: https://www.tomorrowstechnician.com/career-corner-job-interview-questions-to-answer-and-ask/
The above video outlines the opinions of many of my peers with disabilities. Some of these opinions differ from my own, which I will outline later. This does contain a curse word.
Please note that this is just my opinion, and that others with challenges may have differing preferences in how they are addressed or questioned.
Generally, we should treat those with a disability with kindness, and seek to understand, then learn from their experiences.
When asking me questions, I encourage everyone to:
Treat me as you would like to be treated
Relax and Smile
Be courteous and respectful
Come with genuine a interest to learn (Childlike approach)
Ask qualifying questions if you don't understand something.
Speak to me directly
Don't be intentionally condescending
Don't be fearful, be curious (If it bothers me, I'll tell you)
Be very intentional with what you'd like to know.
Have a Sense of Humor
Asking Questions About Helping Someone:
If you feel that someone with a disability needs help, there is an appropriate way to ask them. Don't assume that the person is incapable of accomplishing a task themselves, ALWAYS ASK FIRST
How to Ask (vice, 2018)
Do you need any help?
How can I help you?
Evaluate the situation from there
What Responses Could I Get From A Person With a Disability
I am usually very honest in responding to questions about my challenges, but not everyone is
Responses typically vary, play it by ear
If the person is hesitant to answer, it might be best to change the subject
Follow their lead, be courteous
Be sure to use people-first language, emphasizing the person first, then their challenge.
Remember, that people with disabilities are people first, and some people can be rude and jerks.
Examples of People-First Language
Not a disabled person, but a person with a disability.
Not an amputee, but a person with a prosthetic.
Not an autistic person, but a person with autism.
.