Jessica PingWord of the Week – “deformed”
In this blog post, I will do a close examination of the word “deformed” and explain why you should not use this word to describe a human being’s appearance.
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Introduction To The Ableist Language Series:
Ableist language perpetuates the inferiority of people with disabilities. At its core, it is oppressive, derogatory, and hurtful, no matter the intention behind its usage.
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I guarantee that you use ableist language every single day without even realizing it. It rolls off the tongue naturally because it’s hardly ever questioned.
Here on The Rolling Explorer, I am going to start questioning it.
As an advocate for disability rights, I was appalled when I realized how common ableist language was in my own vocabulary. Of course, like many of you, I was uneducated and unaware of the implications behind my word choice. Our systemically ableist society has allowed these words and phrases to grow in popularity for too long. It’s time for a change.
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Every other week, I will be sharing a blog post that highlights one of the words from the downloadable glossary above. These posts will provide definitions, explanations, as well as alternative words and phrases to use in place of the one being examined.
Today’s word is “deformed.” Keep reading to learn why this word is inherently ableist and discover alternatives you can begin to use in its place.
Definition of “deformed”
- (of a person or part of the body) not having the normal or natural shape or form; misshapen. – Google Dictionary
November Book of the Month
Chosen Ones
How is “deformed” Ableist?
As usual, let’s start with the definition above. First and foremost, the definition states that the word “deformed” is only applicable to humans. But, how many times have you heard someone use it, or used it yourself, to describe an object that’s lost its original shape? Probably quite a few. To formally declare that the word can only apply to humans and then colloquially use it to describe an object’s appearance manages to intensify the objectification that often comes from negatively mentioning one’s physical appearance.
Additionally, this definition’s use of the words “normal and natural” is massively problematic. By saying that someone’s body shape/features are “deformed,” you are essentially labeling them an “other” being. Not only is this dangerous from a mental health perspective, but it also helps amplify the unrealistic beauty standards and expectations upheld by the media. This word, though primarily an issue for the disability community, has also transcended to define plus-sized individuals and members of the trans community.
December Book of the Month
Laughing at My Nightmare
People are people, no matter what their external appearance presents itself as. Every time you use the word “deformed” to describe someone, you take away their humanity and their dignity and simultaneously claim a certain level of superiority over them.
“Deformed” is not a stand-alone descriptor. It is always in reference to something else, even if that something else is not expressly mentioned. It is a comparative tool and a hurtful one at that.
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Alternative Words and Phrases
*be as specific to someone’s actual medical condition as possible, or simply don’t discuss someone’s physical appearance – that works too ☺️
- Shortened/amputated limb
- Curved spine
- ETC
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