Beyond Difference

9781878205148

1878205145

Difference is something that we all have known or felt. It is not necessarily cause for negative experiences, hostility, or rejection. However, when people assert that they feel different it is usually a statement that they feel bad, lonely, or isolated. Role expectation & role behavior can materialize in negative ways, especially when combined with differences. This is what is faced by people with disabilities who are often stereotyped as incapable. Condeluci explores the painful experience of being different & offers solutions for society to heal itself & for individuals within that society to grow beyond difference. A combination of personal stories & professional experiences, Beyond Difference is a profound study of the rightful place of all persons within the society in which they live. Either people with differences are included into groups & association of community or they are not. In many ways, Condeluci suggests our specialties, jargon, & professionalism have gotten in the way. He faces this fact head on in Beyond Difference & provides a compelling argument for change in how the disabled are perceived & devalued and, because of their differences, fall prey to exclusion from society. Beyond Difference is perfect for professionals in any field related to human services, rehabilitation, education. Ideal for college-level counseling, human services, & disability-related courses, as well as libraries, associations, & families.