Discuss the background history of special education and why people have negative attitude towards people with disability
Special education has a long history that dates back to the early 19th century when education was not available to individuals with disabilities. These individuals were often institutionalized or kept at home, and they were not provided with the same educational opportunities as their non-disabled peers.
In the mid-20th century, progress was made in the field of special education with laws and policies being enacted to provide equal educational opportunities for children with disabilities. The passage of the Education for All Handicapped Children Act in 1975, which later became the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), mandated that all children with disabilities have access to a free and appropriate public education.
Despite these advancements, many negative attitudes towards people with disabilities still persist. These negative attitudes stem from a variety of factors, including lack of awareness and understanding of disabilities, fear of the unknown, stereotypes, and societal norms and expectations.
Historically, people with disabilities were often viewed as inferior or incapable of contributing to society. This attitude was reinforced by institutionalization and segregation, which further marginalized individuals with disabilities.
Additionally, misconceptions and lack of education about disabilities have perpetuated negative attitudes. Many people may not understand the nature of disabilities or how they impact an individual's daily life. This lack of understanding can lead to discrimination, exclusion, and stigmatization of people with disabilities.
Societal norms and expectations also play a role in shaping negative attitudes towards people with disabilities. There is often a focus on physical appearance, productivity, and independence in our society, which can lead to the devaluation of individuals with disabilities who may not fit these standards.
Overall, negative attitudes towards people with disabilities are deeply ingrained in society and it will take ongoing education, awareness, and advocacy to combat these attitudes and promote inclusivity and acceptance for all individuals, regardless of their abilities.