How Well Do You Know The Language Of Disability?
Let's see how well-versed you are at appropriate disability terms. Take this short 5-item test and find out!
- 1.
When is it OK to use the term "handicapped?"
- A.
If the person gave you permission to use it
- B.
If you hear other people using it
- C.
Never
Correct Answer
C. NeverExplanation
"Handicap" or "handicapped" should be avoided in describing a person but are appropriate when citing laws, regulations, places or things, such as “handicapped parking.”Rate this question:
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- 2.
Which is the preferred sentence?
- A.
"Paul is deaf and dumb."
- B.
"Jennifer has muscular dystrophy."
- C.
"Andrea suffers from mental illness."
- D.
"Richard is a victim of blindness."
Correct Answer
B. "Jennifer has muscular dystrophy."Explanation
"Stricken with," "suffers from" and "victim of" should all be avoided, as these terms carry the assumption that a person with a disability is suffering or living a reduced quality of life. Not every person with a disability “suffers,” is a “victim” or is “stricken.” It is preferable to use neutral language when describing a person who has a disability, simply stating the facts about the nature of the disability.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Which syndrome is correct?
- A.
Down's Syndome
- B.
Down Syndrome
- C.
Tourette's Syndrome
Correct Answer
B. Down SyndromeExplanation
Not “Down’s Syndrome” for the genetic, chromosomal disorder first reported in 1866 by Dr. J. Langdon Down. The preferred term is “a person with Down syndrome,” as opposed to “Down syndrome child.” Tourette Syndrome is also not possessive.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Which is the preferred term?
- A.
Midget
- B.
Dwarf
- C.
Little Person
Correct Answer
C. Little PersonExplanation
These words refer to people of short stature and have come into common use since the founding of the Little People of America organization.Proponents support a move away from the medical terminology of “dwarf” and “midget.” When writing about people of short stature, it is best to ask the person which term is suitable. Also consider using the term "short stature."Rate this question:
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- 5.
5. Which is the correct term?
- A.
Wheelchair bound
- B.
Confined to a wheelchair
- C.
Wheelchair user
Correct Answer
C. Wheelchair userExplanation
"Wheelchair-bound" and "confined" are very limiting words that gives a negative connotation that a person using a wheelchair cannot do anything productive anymore. Quite the contrary, a wheelchair user can be independent and empowered given the right accessible environment.Rate this question:
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Current Version
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Mar 21, 2023Quiz Edited by
ProProfs Editorial Team -
Nov 03, 2014Quiz Created by
APCDFoundation