You are standing in the fitness center watching over the resistance training section. A fellow trainer comes up to you and says, “There is a client who is asking for you.” When you ask who the client is, the co-worker responds, “The slow-speaking one that trains with you on Fridays. He had a stroke last year.” What part of this conversation does not follow proper disability language etiquette?
a. “A client asking for you”
b. “The slow-speaking one”
c. “He had a stroke last year”
d. None of the above.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is b. “The slow-speaking one.”
This phrase does not follow proper disability language etiquette because it refers to the individual in a way that focuses on a characteristic related to their disability (speech difficulty) rather than recognizing them as a person first. It uses the term “slow-speaking” as a label, which reduces the person to just that characteristic and can be seen as dehumanizing.
In disability etiquette, it is important to use person-first language whenever possible. This means focusing on the individual, not their condition or disability. For example, instead of saying “the slow-speaking one,” it would be more appropriate to say “the client who has a speech impairment” or simply refer to the person by their name. This approach acknowledges the person as an individual rather than defining them solely by their disability.
The phrase “He had a stroke last year” (option c) is actually acceptable when used in the right context because it provides relevant medical information without reducing the individual to their condition. It’s important, however, to make sure that this information is shared in a respectful manner and is relevant to the situation. This can help others understand the person’s needs, but it should not be the sole focus of how the individual is described.
The phrase “A client asking for you” (option a) follows proper etiquette as it does not focus on any specific attribute of the person, just referring to them in the same way you would any other client. It is neutral and appropriate.
In general, respectful communication and language are vital for promoting an inclusive and dignified environment, particularly in settings where individuals may have disabilities.