Some people feel that not fitting in with the dominant norm and experiencing life with some sort of “difference” is in fact a great benefit, because it both releases them from the expectations of others and allows them to look at themselves in new ways.

Learning Goal: I’m working on a sociology discussion question and need an explanation and answer to help me learn.

Instructions

For this assignment, you will engage with a combination of videos and written texts. In addition to the TEDx talk, most of these readings are short and written for a general audience (that’s code for more engaging).

Ted Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=akGYugciSVw&;ab_channel=TEDxTalks
Chapter 1 from the Utlimate Guide to Sex & Disability: Myths about Disability & Sex: (see the attached pdf file)
Content Note: there is one myth that discusses sexual violence against people with disabilities briefly from page 8-9. )

p. 11, Kaufman, Silverberg, & Odette, 2003, Myths about Disability and Sex

“Some people feel that not fitting in with the dominant norm and experiencing life with some sort of “difference” is in fact a great benefit, because it both releases them from the expectations of others and allows them to look at themselves in new ways.

In our culture we are bombarded with messages about who we are supposed to be, how we are supposed to act, and what our lives are supposed to mean. Therefore it’s hard to separate the expectations that have been placed on us from our own feelings and needs. This is especially true about sexuality.”

Reflection Prompt

First, summarize what you reviewed in the class readings and videos. Identify and explain at least one key point or take away that stand out to you. Why is this important? Approximately 250-500 words

Second, considering your positionality in relation to disabilities (whether you identify as having a disability or not – you do not have to disclose, just pay attention to your own relationship to this topic), reflect on how you can participate (or are participating) in promoting sexual rights and well-being for people with disabilities. Approximately 250 words

NOTE: For those without disabilities, be careful of savior complexes. People with disabilities don’t need anyone else to save them from society. Think instead about how you can work alongside people who are already working to pursue sexual rights and justice for all. This could be a personal commitment to learn more, to disrupt bias from others, to evaluate our own bias and behaviors, or to look for opportunities to address structural barriers like calling for the inclusion of sex with disabilities in sex education or ensuring spaces you connect to that foster sexual health and well-being are inclusive.