Are there terms that are offensive to persons with disabilities or preferred language when referring to persons with disabilities?
Yes. There are terms that are generally offensive to persons with disabilities. For example, handicapped is a term that derived from a perception that persons with disabilities had “cap in hand” seeking charity, and is therefore, thought to be offensive. Terms such as crippled, disabled and deformed carry negative connotations and should also be avoided. Persons should seek to use more positive terms such as accessible, as in “accessible parking” or “accessible restroom,” as opposed to “handicapped.” In addition, when referring to persons with hearing disabilities, the term for one who cannot hear is “deaf.” The term from someone who has difficulty hearing, but does posses some ability to hear, is “hard of hearing.” The term “hearing impaired” should be avoided, because when it is translated into sign language, it is conveyed as “broken hearing.” Finally, focus on the person rather than the disability. Instead of referring to “the blind attorney,” refer to the attorney who is blind; in
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