There are many forms of social violence, and those with visible (dis)abilities, and to some extent invisible (dis)abilities, are at the brunt of this violence on a regular basis. The type of social violence directed towards those with (dis)abilities often comes in the form of psychological harm as a result of insults, the questioning of the existence of a difference in ability, invasiveness, and the blatant disregard of the humanity of the individual(s).
Social violence in its essence is a form of harm that can be based out of curiosity as well as lack of regard for, or awareness of, another’s social boundaries. Social violence can be subtle and slightly frustrating to the individual it’s directed at, but it can go so far as to be blatantly evident and devastatingly damaging.
Questions such as “How do you have sex?” or “Why are you like that?” are far too frequently exercised examples of this disrespectful engagement. Use of the word “retarded” as an insult should also be considered a form of social violence.
This is harassment and is oppressive, and shouldn’t be taken lightly, as it’s damaging to a substantial community. The use of phrases such as these is nothing short of a potential assault to the well-being of another.
This behaviour comes about as a result of a dramatic power imbalance that exists between those who don’t perceive themselves as (dis)abled and those who are perceived as such. The harassment of another based on a (dis)ability is an affront to the basic human rights of safety, well-being, and dignity.