Even today, mental and emotional disabilities are greatly misunderstood. While great efforts have been made to inform and educate people about the nature of these disorders, many mentally disabled people are still met with fear and even hostility. In a culture that holds beauty in higher value than almost any other quality, someone who looks or acts differently is almost universally shunned.
One only needs to observe special education students entering their high schools each morning to see the depth of ignorance and hostility that still exists toward these students. Most of the time, these students have no defense against these slurs and snickers unless another student stands up for them. This, too, can cause problems.
In addition to combating these attacks on our mentally disabled students, it is important to instill confidence and self esteem in them. Setting them up to succeed is critical in developing their self worth, and this will enable them to be as self sufficient and productive as possible as they enter their futures.
Make sure special education students understand that it is not their fault that people say these things. Make it clear that the other person has the problem. We may assume the student knows this, but sometimes they do not. Praise them for handling the situations with strength and confidence.
As much as possible, introduce other students to special education students. If they are given a chance to get to know and understand them, they will be less fearful and more compassionate. Mentoring programs that pair special education students with others in the student body can go a long way toward making these introductions.