Parameters of normality and cultural constructions of ‘mental retardation’: perspectives of Bengali families

Abstract

Based on the findings of a qualitative study, this article describes how Bengali mothers of children with disabilities in Kolkata, India, construct disability and normality. Data were collected through extensive interviews and participant observations. Findings indicate that family members do indeed use very different yardsticks for defining disability. The norms used by the families in this study and their perceptions of intelligence were much broader than those used by professionals. The perspectives of these families have implications for challenging the traditional notions of intelligence as well as understandings of disability that are embedded within the dominant paradigm in Special Education.