Sensitivity Basic Skills

Step 1: Express interest and concern for others, especially when they are having problems.

• Rationale:If you help others, they are more likely to help you.
• Helpful Hints:
  If you see someone in trouble, ask if you can help.
  Sometimes, just showing you care is enough to help a person get through a difficult time.

Step 2: Recognize that disabled people deserve the same respect as anyone else.

• Rationale:
  A disability does not make a person inferior. Helping people with disabilities without ridiculing or patronizing them shows that you believe all people are equal, although some people need a little extra assistance.
• Helpful Hints:
  Be ready to help a disabled person when needed by doing such things as holding open a door, carrying a package, giving up your seat.
  
  Don't stare at disabled people or make comments about their special needs.

Step 3: Apologize or make amends for hurting someone's feeling or causing harm.

• Rationale:
  Saying you're sorry shows that you can take responsibility for your actions and can admit when you've done something wrong. 

Step 4: Recognize that people of different races, religions, and backgrounds deserve to be treated the same way as you would expect to be treated.

• Rationale:
  Treating others equally shows that although people are different, you believe that it shouldn't matter in the ways you treat them.
• Helpful Hints:
  Don't make jokes and rude comments about the color of someone's skin or what he or she believes.
  Some people have different customs for doing things. Some people have more money than others. No matter, all people should be treated the same.