International Encyclopedia of Communication Online

Extract

Specific communication disabilities affect the ability to understand and produce language. The most common hearing disabilities are congenital deafness and age-related hearing impairments. The primary causes for difficulties with the production of spoken language are traumatic brain injury, stroke, and dementia (Alzheimer's and related diseases). Of additional relevance is the impact of visual impairment on reading and writing and on following nonverbal cues in conversation. Disability of any type creates psychosocial issues associated with personal and social adjustment, identity, and interactions with others. This entry focuses on the intergroup aspects of disability and communication. It acknowledges the importance of congenital disabilities, but emphasizes the challenges faced by the many individuals with acquired disability, where adjustment to major changes is required for the individuals and their social partners (→  Intergroup Contact and Communication ). As with many other social groups, societies create disability by categorizing human variation and building the boundaries through interpersonal, organizational, and societal activities ( Higgins 1992 ). Negative stereotypes associated with disability include traits such as dependent, sick, unattractive, incompetent, burdensome, hypersensitive, and bitter. The stigma of disability is sustained by unquestioned societal ... log in or subscribe to read full text