Disability vs Differability

When we break down the word 'disability' what do we see and hear?

The prefix 'dis' means "apart". Words that come to mind include DISease, DISability, DISinterested, DISsatisfied. DISrespect. To be "dissed" is to be disrespected. Not sounding too positive is it?

'Ability' refers to skill, talent or a proficiency in a particular area.

Disability is defined as "lack of adequate power, strength, or physical or mental ability; incapacity" (www.dictionary.com)

While I think it is essential to recognise that not everybody has the same access as their peers and that some people have greater struggles than others I think it is is also important to recognise that the word itself implies something negative in, or about, the person.

It is vital that it is recognised so that all people have equal access to opportunities and that people are protected by law. But it is also vital to see more than the disability.

I know for certain, that in the SEND community there are people with exceptional ability. So while there are some deficits in one area, there are strengths in others - for example, I cannot swim, but I can walk. I cannot understand a foreign language but I can talk. Which skills would you consider more exceptional? I am going for the swimming and foreign language.

My son has Autism (PDA) and ADHD are there are many things he is yet to excel at, that his peers find easy. However, he has mastered vocabulary way above the expectations for his age. He can't tell the time but can easily describe what a sonic boom is. I would not say that these reflect a disability but difference.

With this in mind, I prefer the word 'differability', as for me, it sounds less deficit-based and more strength-based and integrative. We all have ability, however, it might be at a different level and at a different pace. This is important to recognise because a child growing up doesn't want to feel "dissed"!

Differability is a strength-based approach to different needs and abilities.