The disabled person in the community: social and cultural aspects.

This article deals with the situation of disabled persons and their families in the local community, with special reference to developing countries. The article reviews various 'myths' about the situation of disabled people in Europe in the old days and in developing countries of today. Cultural and social factors influencing the situation of disabled persons in developing countries are then considered in the light of this review. Finally, case material from Botswana is presented in order to demonstrate how parents' attitudes may easily be misinterpreted as negative if not seen in their proper socio-cultural context.