When interacting with someone with a disability, it’s critical to consider the impact of your words. Often, well-meaning comments like “What happened to you?”, “Good for you!”, or “I can’t believe you’ve accomplished so much” are intended to be supportive. But to the person on the receiving end, they can feel patronizing, ableist, or fall into the category of inspiration porn.
Why does this matter? These phrases reinforce harmful stereotypes that people with disabilities are either objects of pity or superhuman for doing everyday tasks. They assume that the bar is lower for people with disabilities. Instead of making assumptions or offering unsolicited praise, take a moment and ask yourself: Would I appreciate this comment if it were directed at me?
Empathy and respect should guide our interactions. Let’s aim for conversations that uplift without undermining and support without stereotypes.
Alt: Never say to a person with a disability what you wouldn’t want said to yourself. Phrases like ‘what happened to you?’, ‘good for you’ or ‘I can’t believe you’ve accomplished so much’ often come across as ableist or just plain inspiration porn.