How do I stop people from.......?

Question

Okay the last two times(three times I went but the first time I was a 'just graduated from highschool' person) I went on this mission trip that I love going on(just to help others) with church members, at least one person on that trip treats me like I am stupid and retarded and like I'm a little kid. It ruins my whole trip and I get depressed. I don't act like a little kid. Other people that go that aren't leaders but just for fun don't get treated like they're retarded or they're little kids.

I have this theory that I get treated this way because I have a hearing loss and a speech impediment. I am smart for someone with hearing loss.

Anyway I really love going on this mission trip but I hate going because I hate being treated this way! The people that did this to me vary in gender and age.

My question is, how do I assertively and effectively tell them to stop treating me like I'm stupid or like a little kid?

Answer 1

You answered your own question.  You assertively and effectively tell them you're not stupid.  "I'm not stupid," and "I'm not a child."  Period.

Answer 2

join another church - that lot sound horrible

Answer 3

take the person aside and tell them how you feel. people often while trying to be kind and meaning well may overdo it and this becomes insulting.obviously they realize your handicap and may just be trying to protect you.tell them how it makes you feel . you may be surprised at the reasons they say they do what they do.

Answer 4

Be polite and professional but you must state your case and stand your ground firmly.  I too am handicapped and sometimes get treated the same way.  It is humiliating and can make you feel like less of a person even though it shouldn't.  You need to express CLEARLY to them that your handicap does not stop you from being a good, if not one of the best leaders of the mission.  Let them know how much you enjoy the mission trips but that you cannot and will not put up with being treated "differently" because of your handicap.

Trust me.....it will work.  Good luck!!!

Peace & Love :)