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 and 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 and offers solutions for society to heal itself and for
individuals within that society to grow beyond difference.
A combination of personal
stories and 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
and association of community or they are not. In many ways, Condeluci
suggests our specialties, jargon, and professionalism have gotten in the
way. He faces this fact head on in Beyond Difference and provides a
compelling argument for change in how the disabled are perceived and
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, and disability-related courses, as well as libraries,
associations, and families.
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