When the Problem Is Not Only the Child, but a Society That Does Not Accept Differences Author: Gouya Roshan
When the Problem Is Not Only the Child, but a Society That Does Not Accept Differences A child with autism, cerebral palsy, or another disability is not only facing a physical or psychological challenge; they and their families often face a much greater challenge: society’s perception. Many people believe that the biggest difficulty in the lives of these children is autism itself or their disability. However, in reality, the greater pressure often comes from somewhere else: from ignorance, prejudice, and a lack of social acceptance. A child with special needs is, above all, a child. Like every other child, they have the right to play, laugh, go to the park, participate in social life, make friends, and feel that they belong in this world. Yet sometimes, society’s behavior causes families to distance themselves from these simple and natural rights. I did not only see limitations in the faces of these children; I saw children who, like all children, need love, attention, play, and recogn...