Mystique in attitudes to problems of disabled people

The problems of disabled people are often cloaked by a mystique developed by professionals, who intellectualize, analyze or compartmentalize the various aspects of these problems. They propagate the attitude that only the particular language developed by professionals can define the problems of disabled people; only the methods used by professional analysts can be used to determine where the problems come from; only the models developed by professionals can provide a solution; and only professionals are qualified and capable of implementing solutions. All of this undermines the efficacy with which disabled people can help themselves to operate at their maximum capacity.

1. In Europe a considerable effort is made to enable disabled people themselves to make a choice towards independent living. Professionals are encouraging disabled people to participate in decision making.

1. Incomprehensibility of specialized jargon

1. Unequal employment opportunities for disabled persons
2. Sexual unfulfilment of the disabled
3. Self-imposed social isolation due to torture

1. Strengthening disability awareness

1. Problem
2. Disability