Written by Jennifer Tkach
When we think about down syndrome, we can often focus on preconceived notions and unjust labels; but what would happen if we broke this narrative and focused on the individual themself instead? The reality is that people with down syndrome are just like any other; they experience joy, have dreams to fulfill, face challenges of all kinds, and possess powerful passions – just as anyone else would. The reality is that individuals with down syndrome are often confined to their diagnosis, when they have every reason not to be.
Before we begin our conversation on down syndrome beyond the labels, lets first ask the question, what exactly is down syndrome? Down syndrome is a genetic condition that affects individuals that possess an extra copy of chromosome 21. Chromosomes are genetic bundles of genes that reside within the body’s cells, bundles that dictate how the human body is composed and how it operates. The addition of an extra chromosome affects these functions significantly, including the development process. Some aspects that the extra chromosome affects include mental facilities and functions, challenging retention and memory, alongside some physical differences, including narrowed eyes, a flattened face, or overall smaller body features. With the syndrome, there are three different types included; Trisomy 21, translocation, and mosaic, with the first being the most common. The second type differs in the sense that an extra chromosome attaches itself to another, and the third means some cells have the extra chromosome, while the others do not, resulting in milder symptoms. An error in cell division tends to be the primary cause for down syndrome, yet all of the causing factors are not fully understood. While the science behind the condition may be complex, what shouldn't be complex is understanding truths and separating them from the myths.
Many people believe and perpetuate common misconceptions about the syndrome, and by the end of this article, we hope you will not be one of them. To accomplish this, let’s explore few of these myths and debunk them together:
Myth #1: Those with down syndrome cannot participate in physical activities.
This myth often originates from the visible differences that stem from down syndrome, with an emphasis on the stunted body features alongside lowered muscle tones. With these side effects, people often believe down syndrome to be an entirely debilitating condition. Although it is true that individuals with this condition may face some sort of complications with physical movement or activity, the idea of being unable to successfully partake or pursue physical activities is itself not a symptom or side effect. In fact, to ensure those with down syndrome are able to utilize their mobility to its extent, physical therapy is often introduced early on in their lives, in addition to numerous opportunities existing for people with down syndrome to explore an interest in physical sports and activities.
Myth #2: Those with down syndrome cannot be independent.
This idea pairs with the thought that they cannot attend regular public schools, due to the mental barriers and development dilemmas they possess, and consequently are not as intelligent. As a result, it is believed that they require constant, around the clock monitoring and tutoring, in turn affecting their ability to develop and maintain independence. With this preconceived notion, down syndrome individuals are limited in terms of what they can and cannot do, including basic human skills such as reading, writing, and talking. While it is true that extra support may be necessary, this is only the case due to the genetic composition of their chromosomes and is not a reflection of the individual's capabilities. With proper and adequate support, those with down syndrome are able to accomplish the same, and more, as any individual can, and believing they are intelligently inferior, or that they cannot be independent, only perpetuates this damaging myth.
Myth #3: Those with down syndrome are always happy.
This is a common myth. Even though people who have Down syndrome can often be joyful and express happiness, they also exhibit a full range of feelings as any other person would. These emotions include sometimes becoming upset, feeling anger, experiencing frustration, all paired with the familiar emotions of happiness or excitement. Each person with down syndrome maintains different emotional responses and each personality is entirely unique, just as with those who do not have down syndrome. Holding the assumption that they are always happy can be very harmful, as doing so lessens their emotional depth and can prevent others from observing their struggles or providing the proper assistance when needed. People with down syndrome have their own thoughts, feelings, and concerns, and they must be dealt with as whole individuals and should not be reduced to a stereotype.
So now that we've discussed and dismissed a few common myths about the syndrome, let's talk about what you can be doing instead; there is always something you can be doing to break a stigma, and this situation is no different:
You can always educate yourself, whether it is through reading articles or blogs, conducting genuine and in-depth research, or any evening reaching out to professionals in the matter are all excellent ways to educate yourself on any topic. You have already made a step in the right direction by clicking this page and skimming through the article!
Instead of maintaining preconceived notions, you can alternatively focus on the abilities and similarities, recognizing the wide range of talents, interests, and passions that those with down syndrome possess, while also understanding that they maintain as much potential as the next.
Be an ally; being an ally entails promoting representation, while advocating for accessibility, respect, and equality for those with down syndrome. Being a genuine and true ally, however goes much further than public gestures; that means standing up for these values and being of support even when no one is watching, that making inclusivity a daily commitment, rather than a simple act of service to appease the public eye.
The reality remains that although individuals with down syndrome may possess some differences, anyone and everyone is just as different. It is important to understand these differences, rather than stereotype them, and come to a common consensus that they should not be misconstrued as limitations. Everyone has their own mountains to climb, and we should all be doing our best to help them reach the top.
Works Cited
Admin. “Down Syndrome Misconceptions vs. Reality.” Global Down Syndrome
Foundation, 18 May 2023, www.globaldownsyndrome.org/about-down-syndrome/misconceptions-vs-reality/.
“Down Syndrome.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention, www.cdc.gov/birth-defects/about/down-syndrome.html. Accessed 9 Feb. 2025.
“Facts, Myths, & Truths about down Syndrome.” National Down Syndrome Society
(NDSS), ndss.org/myths-truths. Accessed 9 Feb. 2025.
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