The following is a short list of common myths about disability and helpful tips on courtesy and use of courteous language. Most of these were gathered via the Internet by finding forums devoted to specific disabilities and asking for feedback from disabled people themselves, their families and friends. You will note that we have included a section on myths about and courtesy tips for the treatment of non-disabled people by disabled people. It is our firm belief that mutual understanding, not patronage, is the true way to working together. All disabled people, especially within specific disabilities, have the same needs.
Disabled people are all sweet, spiritual and good, or Disabled people are all bitter and resentfu.
Having any disability impairs mental ability. Disabled people are unlikely to have healthy relation-ships. Disabled people always need some sort of supervision. Disabled people are like children and should be treated and spoken to as such. Disabled workers require more attention and accommodation than they re worth.