Disability

Last updated 29 Jul 2010

Prejudice based on disability

Prejudice based on disability is treating somebody negatively different because of their disability status.  This could be directly, such as verbal abuse, or indirectly, holding a meeting in an inaccessible venue.

Where might you experience disabilism online?

Disabilism (or prejudice based on disability) is frequent on many places online, from chat-rooms, to newspaper comments, and in website design, which for many people with disabilities, prevents them from accessing certain materials and information

Risks

Cyberbullying

According to leading bullying charities, bullying based on disability status is rife.  Cyberbullying is the use of the Internet or other mobile technologies to bully an individual.  Cyberbullying based on disability online can come in the form of mean comments, text messages, or purposeful exclusion from groups, among many other forms.

If you have experienced any form of cyberbullying and would like to talk to someone about it, go to: www.cybermentors.org.uk for impartial, non-judgemental information and advice from other young people.

Lack of access

Despite regulations for website design to be accessible to people regardless of disability status, many websites fall short of this.  This can include internet safety websites, meaning many people with disabilities cannot access necessary information for keeping themselves safe on the Internet.

Sexual/ Emotional Exploitation

Because of the increased amount of stigma many disabled people face in the offline world, the Internet can be seen as a safe haven for exploration, meeting new friends and initiating new relationships.  However, the increased amount of trust placed in these situations can leave the young disabled person vulnerable to sexual and emotional exploitation.  If you feel you are being groomed, or sexually or emotionally exploited in any way, report it to CEOP.

Positive Aspects

Ability to hide disability online

The Internet also provides people with visible disabilities the ability to hide these due to the anonymous potential of the Internet.  For some people this can be a liberating experience. 

Networking

The inaccessibility of many offline spaces can similarly be tackled by the Internet with increased opportunities for networking, meeting new friends, and engaging in meetings which real-life barriers may have prevented.

Safety Tips

Online child abuse/sexual abuse/obscene images , and discriminatory content can be reported to: