DOWN SYNDROME AND THE SOCIAL STIGMA 1

Down Syndrome and the Social Stigma: Developmental Effects

Cassie Davis

University of Southern Mississippi

LIS 201: Introduction to Information Literacy

DOWN SYNDROME AND THE SOCIAL STIGMA 2

Abstract:
There is a continued lack of awareness, compassion, and comprehension of Down syndrome in
today’s society. The ignorance leads to a negative social stigma upon those with mental
disabilities, leaving persons with Down syndrome vulnerable to bullying, depression, lack of self
confidence, self hate, and prone to think they are completely incapable of being recognized as
human. Positive behavior towards persons with Down syndrome can help in the development of
social knowledge and social reasoning. Encouragement of eliminating the negative social stigma
related to those with mental disabilities can help promote the acceptable social skills and positive
self-awareness for individuals with Down syndrome.
Keywords:​ Down syndrome, social stigma, development
DOWN SYNDROME AND THE SOCIAL STIGMA 3

Scholarly Sources:

Cunningham, C., Glenn, S., (2004). Self-awareness in Young Adults with Down Syndrome: I.
Awareness of Down syndrome and disability. ​International Journal of Disability,
Development and Education, 51​(4), 337-361. Retrieved from
http://web.a.ebscohost.com.lynx.lib.usm.edu/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=6&sid=74c7f
9a2-34f8-4136-b951-c71a5341bd6d%40sdc-v-sessmgr05

This study was focused on understanding human awareness of those with Down syndrome,
as well as the self-awareness of the individual with Down syndrome. The study was done
over a course of time and took place in Liverpool, UK; this is acceptable to note due to
societal distinction in different nations. Children were the focal point of the study because
they are more susceptible to social influences. The Down syndrome individuals in the study
were also children because the researchers wanted to understand the cognitive details of
self-awareness. It is found, just as theorized, that Down syndrome individuals do not begin
to develop self-awareness of their disability until at least the age of 8. However, children
without the mental handicap were able to identify those with the disability and exhibited
discomfort or disapproval.

In order to understand the complexity of self-hate in individuals with Down syndrome, it is

vital to be knowledgeable of when these persons develop self awareness. This resource
became valuable in the development of my topic because readers are given the information
regarding a person of mental disabilities beginning stages of life and when they become
self aware. With this information, there is a sense of progression in understanding the
social stigma of those with Down syndrome and how it affects their individual perceptions.
By understanding the developmental stages of a person with Down syndrome and the
perceptions of that children have of those with mental disabilities, it becomes clearer why
my topic is relevant in society today.

Barisnikov, B., Lejeune, F. (2018). Social knowledge and social reasoning abilities in a
neurotypical population and in children with Down syndrome. ​PLoS ONE, 13​(7), 1-18.
Retrieved from
http://web.a.ebscohost.com.lynx.lib.usm.edu/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=6&sid=74c7f
9a2-34f8-4136-b951-c71a5341bd6d%40sdc-v-sessmgr05

This study was done to conclude the developmental stage, intellectually and socially,
between children with disabilities and children without. Researchers executed the study
through drawing portrayals and a series of questions regarding social morals and
DOWN SYNDROME AND THE SOCIAL STIGMA 4

awareness. While the children with Down syndrome who were being studied ranged from
10-18, the mean age for the 20 children without any mental disabilities was five and a half;
this provided objective reasoning for the developmental phase of the two groups. The study
also found that there are gap years for development in person with Down syndrome, which
affects the progression as a whole.

In order to understand why persons with Down syndrome lack in social awareness,
researchers and readers need to know about the developmental stages of one with the
disability. Because a person with these handicaps is susceptible to giving up, constant
encouragement and nurturing is required to continue the progression. We are able to
understand the credibility and reliability of this source by directing to the statistics that are
provided by primary research and secondary research. Researchers went in depth and made
sure to not pressure any child or participant to continue; it was all volunteer base. Children
are prone to mistakes and so are those with Down syndrome because of the mental
setbacks.

Foley, K.R, Taffe, J., Bourke, J., Einfeld, S.L., Tonge, B.J., Troller, J., Leonard, H. (2016).
Young People with Intellectual Disability Transitioning to Adulthood: Do Behaviour
Trajectories Differ in Those with and without Down Syndrome?. ​PLoS ONE, 11​(7), 1-14.
Retrieved from
http://web.a.ebscohost.com.lynx.lib.usm.edu/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=9&sid=4a0ff
6aa-6927-419e-80fe-b02217582151%40sdc-v-sessmgr01

This study was conducted to understand the differences in the adult transition phase of
those with Down syndrome and those out. A study such as this can help readers understand
the complexity of the mind of someone with the disease and why their developmental stage
and transitional stage is a slower process because of Down syndrome. The study concludes
that because of the extreme differences of the phase for each control group, society, as a
whole, can help with the behavioral conditions by staying aware and encouraging a smooth
transition. Society as a whole needs to adopt sensitivity and compassion, while also
maintaining a normalized relationship with those in the Down syndrome community.

The source can be integrated into the development of unification of the two larger
communities of society. Members of society can encourage a healthier relationship with the
community of Down syndrome persons by becoming more educated, normalizing these
specific peoples place in society, and focusing on the betterment of understanding the
disease. By doing so, the attitudes of the persons with the disease will improve in the
community as a whole, and social awareness, self-positivity, and neighboring friendships
DOWN SYNDROME AND THE SOCIAL STIGMA 5

will enhance. Neglecting the issues that persons with Down syndrome have can only be
detrimental to the development of their interaction with society.

Kenny, M., Shevlin, M., Walsh, P.N., McNeela, E. (2005). Accessing mainstream: examining
the struggle for parents of children who have learning difficulties. ​Journal of Research in
Special Educational Needs, 5(​ 1), 11-19. Retrieved from
http://web.a.ebscohost.com.lynx.lib.usm.edu/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=7&sid=45de7
e07-6fd4-4d75-811c-c1d460e76d93%40sessionmgr4009

This article and research was done in order to understand the struggle mother with disabled,
specifically Down syndrome, children deals with because of the social stigma. THe study
elaborates on how the lack of societal support and isolation not only have direct impact on
the child with the disease, but also the parents of the children in the specified community.
Because the children are being isolated and turned away from their peers due to the lack of
education and compassion, so are the parents of the children. Both are demonizing, but the
parents social isolation is the lesser of the two evils. This study articulates the needs of
mothers of Down syndrome children, which includes societal support, inclusivity in
mainstream, increase in education of the disease, and positivity from society; all would
enhance the happiness, healthiness, and social interaction of families within the Down
syndrome community.

By including this research in the development of my topic, readers are able to understand
the impact negative attitudes of societies has on not only the person with the disease, but
the family who works to support and devotes time to the healthy development of the person
with the disease. While the person may be difference, they are still influenced by society,
so if society is telling them they are too different to understand and love, then the person
will begin to believe that. This negative energy is then taken home and the mother is left
re-introducing self-love and self assurance to the person; the family has now been
indirectly impacted by society’s negative perspective on the disease.

Cumella, S., Heslam, S. (2014). Supported housing for people with Down’s syndrome. ​British
Journal of Learning Disabilities, 42, 2​ 51-256. Retrieved from
http://web.a.ebscohost.com.lynx.lib.usm.edu/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=8&sid=672a1
2b9-418f-4213-a044-7d0e50a71cc8%40sdc-v-sessmgr01

This study was done to understand how adults with Down syndrome are developing when
giving the option for supported housing, which is a process in support of helping those with
the disease essentially “support themselves”. While the study was conducted to see the
relevance and attitudes toward supported housing, there was also discovery of the positive
DOWN SYNDROME AND THE SOCIAL STIGMA 6

effect on the person when they are normalized and able to participate in regular society.
The study shows how society can play a hand in the happiness and self-assurance of the
individual who faces inner demons otherwise due to feeling a sense of not belonging.

With this study, although different from the rest, the readers are able to understand how
introducing normal activities and responsibilities to persons with Down syndrome, through
the support of society, can have a direct and positive effect on the mentality of persons with
Down syndrome and the acceptance from the rest of society. By commencing ways of
inclusion and implementing it in the daily lives of those with the disease, the persons and
the community is able to benefit and gain a sense of fitting in, which is crucial in a healthy
development. This study alone will build the recognition of responsibility from society.

MacLean, J. (2008). The Art of Inclusion. ​Canadian Review of Art Education: Research and
Issues, 35​, 75-98. Retrieved from
http://web.b.ebscohost.com.lynx.lib.usm.edu/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=7&sid=49ac6
b5c-a5ac-42b3-a315-c73ecdf6ffeb%40sessionmgr101

This study is done not only to show the benefits of inclusion of those with disabilities, but
elaborates on society can perceive and succeed in that specified goal. Support can begin
with a smile, but exceed to the schools, government, and much more. To go more in depth,
by society integrating a form of education that is directed towards those with Down
syndrome while not excluding them from the mainstream of society is vital in the healthy
behaviors and their development. The researcher conducted the study in efforts to show
that education is vital in the success, as well as an implementation of art in their daily
studies. This will help these persons to be well-versed in societal activities and interests, as
well maintaining awareness of the self and positive behaviors.

By including this article in the combination of research gathered in order to convey my

topic message, I believe that readers will be inclined to staying tuned for the rest of the
information, because of common denominator. Presenting a study of arts to the community
of persons with Down syndrome will build a sense of social relevance and awareness for
each person because they are absorbing information about a ground of communication and
entertainment for society. Because art is extremely mainstream and a crucial part of
society, helping persons with Down syndrome develop the awareness skill will build a
common factor between normal society and the community.
DOWN SYNDROME AND THE SOCIAL STIGMA 7

Credible Sources:

Mandal, A. (2018, August 23). Down Syndrome in Society. ​News Medical Life Sciences.
Retrieved November 29, 2018 from
https://www.news-medical.net/health/Down-Syndrome-in-Society.aspx

This source is utilized to tell of the history of society towards those with Down syndrome,
the progression over the years, and how we can continue to succeed in treating them with
the same respect as we would any other persons. The author highlights that our attitudes
towards the persons with this handicap is directly effective on their developmental stage of
social skills. It is also highlighted in this source that persons with the disease not only need
emotional and intellectual support, but financial support and awareness because of the
strains on funds the assistance can be in supporting a person with Down syndrome; this
source is focus on social awareness and support.

Through reading this source, we understand a more subjective, but still factual, societal
approach to gaining supporters of and respect for the Down syndrome community. The
author articulates the importances of societal support for persons with the handicap disease,
but also builds on how to address challenges. This alone helps with the case that is being
presented to show the societal effect on persons with Down syndrome. We understand the
source is credible by the date provided, author name provided, sources provided, relevance
to the topic, clarity in the article, and the link being followed by .net. The author’s name is
linked with a bio and information regarding her expertise in the field.

Pace, J.E., Shin, M., Rasmussen, S.A. (2010). Understanding Attitudes Toward People With
Down Syndrome. ​Public Health Resources.​ Retrieved November 29, 2018 from
https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1264&context=publichealthres
ources

This article is curated to help readers and researchers understand just how a sample of
society feels about Down syndrome and persons with it. This research alone will help
dictate the progression on how we tackle the social stigma directed towards the community
of Down syndrome. The information was gathered through primary research, surveys were
written and questionnaires were administered in order to gain a thorough understanding.
The study also was conducted to see how society can positively impact the attitudes of
those with Down syndrome; one part of the study concluded that persons with Down
syndrome who attend regular schools, rather than those isolate for the disease, have a better
and more positive attitude.
DOWN SYNDROME AND THE SOCIAL STIGMA 8

This source can stand as a key component in the research of society progression integrated
with Down syndrome because it is a direct indication of the way persons with the disease
develop when put under more comfortable and normalized conditions. With society
focusing on this and being educated, there no longer has to only be a Down syndrome
community; it can be cohesive with the rest of society because of an abundance of support.
We know that this source is credible because its currency (2010), relevancy, authority
(authors from Center of Disease Control and Prevention), accuracy, and purpose, which
was clearly stated.

Government Sources:

United States Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Bullying and Youth with
​ etrieved November 29, 2018
Disabilities and Special Health Needs. ​StopBullying.gov. R
from
https://www.stopbullying.gov/at-risk/groups/special-needs/index.html

This government source is provided to enhance a safe environment for children with mental
disabilities, specifically Down syndrome. The encouragement is motivated by positive
outcomes from those who have been given the information and are aware of the disability
and the person with it. With this source, readers receive a list provisions for disabled
children who are being bullied because of their mental handicap and inabilities to carry on
as a “normal” child would. Encouragement is executed through this source and a list is
provided to give pointers on how one can support and make a difference in the life of those
with Down syndrome.

This source provides positive energy and outcomes in situations where children with Down
syndrome are treated no different. It also makes the reader aware of the opposite. With this
in mind, we’re able to extract this information and apply it to the chosen topic and how the
beginning stages make a world of societal differences. Developing these key ideas on
positivity promotion, readers are able to understand the powerful impact creating a safe
environment has on those with Down syndrome. Because this is a government provided
information and executed through a government site, we know the information is reliable
and applicable. We can also check reliability via hyperlinks embedded in the information.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Down Syndrome Facts. Retrieved November
29, 2018 from
https://www.cdc.gov/features/down-syndrome-day/index.html
DOWN SYNDROME AND THE SOCIAL STIGMA 9

This government source is provided to give a series of facts and information regarding
persons with Down syndrome and how delicate their minds can be in the developmental
stages: note this stage is technically throughout their entire life, but minds are more
vulnerable as children. To help readers understand the passion behind the source, a
personal story is given to help with the progression of intimacy, understanding, and
compassion for those who face mental handicaps, specifically Down syndrome. The source
is focused on education and positivity promotion of Down syndrome; there is dedication to
informing the public on the condition.

The source is a direct indicator in supporters and providers of assistance for those with the
mental handicap, Down syndrome. As a government source, it’s provided to educate the
public, while also promote a sense of positivity; this is used in the process of helping the
readers gain knowledge on the disease and the requirements of nurture and sensitivity. In
order to help those understand why there is a social stigma and how it can be alleviated,
readers need to know of the resources that are provided to support those with Down
syndrome and how to expand from that. This is all vital in the progression.

Reference Source:

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. (n.d.). The New Dictionary of Cultural
Literacy. Retrieved November 29, 2018 from
https://www.dictionary.com/browse/down-s-syndrome

This reference source provides an in-depth description of the word(s), the pronunciation,
and the logistics of the historical background of the word and word usage. It becomes a
reliable source in indicating the use of the word, which can help eliminate the negative
connotations that may surface with the word. The source provides descriptions of the origin
and the multitude of definitions based on the field or where the word is applicable. This
information is provided in order to give a surface understanding of what the word and
disease is, without the provisions of facts or scenarios to help the reader understand the
place it has in society.

By developing an understanding of the logistics of the word, the reader is able to progress
in comprehending the origin and the emergence of the word usage. Thus, a development of
positivity towards the Down syndrome community can commence and people can begin to
affiliate the disease with the logistical meaning of the word, rather than the negative
connotation that has been provided over the years by society. Progression is possible, as
well as alleviating the issue of treating persons with Down syndrome differently, but it
DOWN SYNDROME AND THE SOCIAL STIGMA 10

begins with understanding the word and what the disease is; this is vital in a cleaner
societal impact on the minds of those with the disease.

Popular Source:

Silverman, A. (2017). Parents of Kids With Down Syndrome, on Both Sides of Stares. ​The New
York Times. ​Retrieved November 29, 2018 from
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/10/03/well/family/staring-down-syndrome-special-needs.ht
ml

The article that was written was done so to encourage education pertaining to those with
Down syndrome and the effect it has on the person with the disease. The story line
elaborates on a mother of a girl with Down syndrome and how she has to stop herself from
saying something to people who stare at her daughter. She soon comes to terms that doing
so would increase the embarrassment; the only resolution is education, not entertainment.
People stare and question what they do not understand, and it tends to offend the parents,
family members, friends, and affiliates of the person receiving the stares.

This article can provide a background story of passion to readers, researchers, and those
confused about why education of the disease is vital in maintaining positivity in the Down
syndrome community. Because at a certain age those with Down syndrome become self
aware, it is imperative to grow sensitivity to the person and become educated with the
disease the persons battle everyday. By developing this social skills for the community of
those with Down syndrome, you, inturn, enhance their social awareness, interaction, and
positive mentalities, thus, creating a world where we respect and benefit each other. To
continue the blatant stares and ignorance would be to continue the disrespect and hostility
to those persons with Down syndrome.
DOWN SYNDROME AND THE SOCIAL STIGMA 11

References
Barisnikov, B., Lejeune, F. (2018). Social knowledge and social reasoning abilities in a
neurotypical population and in children with Down syndrome. ​PLoS ONE, 13​(7), 1-18.
Retrieved from
http://web.a.ebscohost.com.lynx.lib.usm.edu/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=6&sid=74c7f
9a2-34f8-4136-b951-c71a5341bd6d%40sdc-v-sessmgr05
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Down Syndrome Facts. Retrieved November
29, 2018 from
https://www.cdc.gov/features/down-syndrome-day/index.html
Cumella, S., Heslam, S. (2014). Supported housing for people with Down’s syndrome. ​British
Journal of Learning Disabilities, 42, 2​ 51-256. Retrieved from
http://web.a.ebscohost.com.lynx.lib.usm.edu/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=8&sid=672a1
2b9-418f-4213-a044-7d0e50a71cc8%40sdc-v-sessmgr01
Cunningham, C., Glenn, S., (2004). Self-awareness in Young Adults with Down Syndrome: I.
Awareness of Down syndrome and disability. ​International Journal of Disability,
Development and Education, 51(​ 4), 337-361. Retrieved from
http://web.a.ebscohost.com.lynx.lib.usm.edu/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=6&sid=74c7f
9a2-34f8-4136-b951-c71a5341bd6d%40sdc-v-sessmgr05
Foley, K.R, Taffe, J., Bourke, J., Einfeld, S.L., Tonge, B.J., Troller, J., Leonard, H. (2016).
Young People with Intellectual Disability Transitioning to Adulthood: Do Behaviour
Trajectories Differ in Those with and without Down Syndrome?. ​PLoS ONE, 11(​ 7), 1-14.
Retrieved from
http://web.a.ebscohost.com.lynx.lib.usm.edu/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=9&sid=4a0ff
6aa-6927-419e-80fe-b02217582151%40sdc-v-sessmgr01
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. (n.d.). The New Dictionary of Cultural
Literacy. Retrieved November 29, 2018 from
https://www.dictionary.com/browse/down-s-syndrome
Kenny, M., Shevlin, M., Walsh, P.N., McNeela, E. (2005). Accessing mainstream: examining
the struggle for parents of children who have learning difficulties. ​Journal of Research in
Special Educational Needs, 5(​ 1), 11-19. Retrieved from
http://web.a.ebscohost.com.lynx.lib.usm.edu/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=7&sid=45de7
e07-6fd4-4d75-811c-c1d460e76d93%40sessionmgr4009
MacLean, J. (2008). The Art of Inclusion. ​Canadian Review of Art Education: Research and
Issues, 35,​ 75-98. Retrieved from
http://web.b.ebscohost.com.lynx.lib.usm.edu/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=7&sid=49ac6
b5c-a5ac-42b3-a315-c73ecdf6ffeb%40sessionmgr101
Mandal, A. (2018, August 23). Down Syndrome in Society. ​News Medical Life Sciences.
Retrieved November 29, 2018 from
https://www.news-medical.net/health/Down-Syndrome-in-Society.aspx
DOWN SYNDROME AND THE SOCIAL STIGMA 12

Pace, J.E., Shin, M., Rasmussen, S.A. (2010). Understanding Attitudes Toward People With
Down Syndrome. ​Public Health Resources.​ Retrieved November 29, 2018 from
https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1264&context=publichealthres
ources
Silverman, A. (2017). Parents of Kids With Down Syndrome, on Both Sides of Stares. ​The New
York Times. ​Retrieved November 29, 2018 from
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/10/03/well/family/staring-down-syndrome-special-needs.ht
ml
United States Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Bullying and Youth with
​ etrieved November 29, 2018
Disabilities and Special Health Needs. ​StopBullying.gov. R
from
https://www.stopbullying.gov/at-risk/groups/special-needs/index.html