Working Across Cultures

Disability is an element of the human condition that can evoke strong feelings and beliefs. It is important for exchange providers and participants to learn about each culture's approach to disability. The more that is known about cultural norm's regarding disability, the easier it will be to work with overseas partners.

Language

The language used to describe conditions and accommodations can vary significantly from country to country or from individual to individual.  For instance, the word lift in American English refers specifically to a device used for helping people with mobility concerns enter vehicles or as a substitute for an elevator when making a half floor accessible. In British English the word lift means an elevator in general.

Perceptions

While disabilities such as learning disabilities, or seizure disorders are widely accepted in American culture; in other cultures these disabilities and others may not be recognized formally as a disability, or may carry connotations of being lazy or gifted. Understanding how a disability may be viewed by a given culture is a key consideration when explaining a participant's needs to a host country.

Disability specific vocabulary

The words disability and disabled are generally accepted among the disability rights community in the United States, although people with disabilities may choose to use other terms to define themselves. For example, individuals who are blind, Deaf or who have certain other disabilities may feel that the word "disabled" only applies to those who have mobility disabilities, and may prefer more specific terms.

Furthermore, many people who are Deaf choose to capitalize the word Deaf because it refers to a unique culture (Learn more about Deaf culture), as well as to their disability. Since this is a very personal issue, let the language used by the individual with a disability guide you.

Most people with disabilities agree that it is preferable to be referred to as a person with a disability, rather than as "the disabled."

Here are some additional language tips:

1. Do not sensationalize a disability by saying "afflicted with," "victim of" and so on. Instead, say "a person who has multiple sclerosis," "a person with a learning disability," etc.
2.  Emphasize the individual, not the disability. Use phrases like "people with disabilities" or "a person who is blind," rather than "disabled people" or "blind person."
3.  Describe mobility equipment as tools for mobility: say "uses a wheelchair" rather than "confined to a wheelchair" or "wheelchair-bound." Say "walks with crutches/braces" rather than using terms like crippled or lame.
4. People with disabilities should never be referred to as patients or cases except by professionals involved in their medical care.

However, many cultures around the world continue to utilize terms like retarded, crippled, handicapped, sick, etc., when referring to people who have disabilities. Upon hearing this language, many American participants will bristle, at first, but with warning, adjust quickly and learn that people may mean no offense.