I usually don’t and that is only because I don’t want them to feel that they are any different from me or anyone else who is not disabled.
For instance, if I see an individual in a wheelchair, I won’t go rushing to the door to hold it for him/her, unless I happen to be in front of or right behind him/her and only in that case would I hold the door just like I would for anyone else.
I’m not sure how justified I am in my behaviour towards them. My intention is not to let them or anyone else (who stands out) feel that they are any different from the rest of us.
I have sort of been thinking about it since last week. We have a disabled student in our statistics class and I believe another student got up and helped him out by removing the chair to make room for his wheelchair. It at least got me looking his way, but then I turned around and continued with whatever it was that I was doing.
I am a little concerned as I’m not sure if I should be more helpful or if I should leave it as is.
Re: Do you go out of your way to help the disabled?
^ you and your signitures, I swear.
Sadiyah, I totally know what you mean. I think your approach is fine. I do the same you do. Only one thing you might want to try. Flash them a smile when you look their way. No one sees that as pity-treatment. Smiles always make people feel fuzzy inside. Well, unless they are politicians.