Elizabeth Myler Source 2

Holman '05, Elizabeth G., "Role-Taking vs. cultural identity: Defining disability in an able-bodied environment" (2005)

My question is "How does stigma play a role in how the disabled see themselves and their unique lives?"

Before reading a source: I think that having a disability definitely adds something to the way a person views themselves and the quality of their lives. While some disabled people go through very hard times mentally and emotionally in response to their lifestyle, many find ways to truly enjoy their life and work to accept the way things are and the person they are, disability and all. Either way, I think  that the stigmas society has placed on those with disabilities play a role for all disabled people in their outlook on their life. Many who do not have an obvious physical impairment keep their disability as much of a secret as possible in order to preserve the way others see them as "normal". Any disability may also make them feel like their quality of life is not as good as it should be because they compare the things they cannot do to the things healthy people can do.

I think this source will be useful because of the title "Role-Taking vs. cultural identity: Defining disability in an able-bodied environment" and because the beginning mentions a main topic of "How is disability viewed by individuals with physical impairments, as well as by the general society?" and the sub questions that the author will address in the paper.

The author argues that those who are disabled consider disability to be a role instead of a cultural minority. She follows to say that most of the time many disabled people see themselves as normal, and "their impairments become problematic only when the environment fails to fit their needs". I disagree with this second statement; the everyday struggles a disabled person deals with can be frustrating, and act as a constant reminder of how the individual is different. The individualized approach that they have toward all the tasks they attempt may become normal to them as in it becomes routine, but I do not think that those who are disabled always see themselves as "normal" except when society fails to meet their needs. The attention one receives from others might make them feel frustrated and far from "normal". The fact that everywhere they go turns into a much more difficult trip than it would be for the able-bodied would also be a factor that could hinder from a disabled individual from seeing themselves and their lifestyles as "normal".