Developmental Disabilities Abuse and Neglect
Overview
Hundreds of adults in Oregon with developmental
disabilities experience abuse or neglect each year. The number may be
much higher – many cases are never reported to the proper authorities.
Historically, people with disabilities have been discriminated against because
of their disabilities, seen as incapable and helpless, separated from society-at-large
and denied opportunities for education and other life experiences. Misperceptions
and stereotypes about people with disabilities also put people with disabilities
at an increased risk to experience abuse and neglect.
Abuse of adults with developmental disabilities and other vulnerable adults
is never okay. In some cases the abuse is a criminal action that can be prosecuted
by local, state and even federal authorities.
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