Read the following scenario and indicate whether the actions stated can be considered as respectful or disrespectful behaviour towards people with disabilities.

Simon felt embarrassed because he could not understand what Sasha, a colleague with a hearing impairment, was saying. He shrugged his shoulders, shook his head from side to side and then pointed to his ears indicating that he did not understand. He offered her a pen from his bag, hoping that she would write down what she wanted to say.

Disrespectful

Respectful

1 answer

Respectful

Simon's actions, although initially expressing his embarrassment, show an attempt to communicate and accommodate Sasha's hearing impairment by offering a pen for her to write down what she wanted to say. This indicates a willingness to engage and find a solution rather than dismissing her or avoiding communication.