Why do some people use the word "Handicapped" rather than disabled?

Answer 1

I think use of the word "handicapped" was socially popular for a while but fell out of favor because of the negative connotation (it's hard to aspire to a life goal thinking you are handicapped). Use of the word "retarded" has been discouraged for general use because so many people used that word as an insult. Disabled is more reality based, but still negative, since most so-classified people consider themselves differently-abled. If I have multiple sclerosis, I am NOT retarded. But I may need special architecture for independent living.

Answer 2

Probably because they don't know any better, or perhaps they are from a generation that wasn't as sensitive as today's generation is.
Actually, the preferred way of referring to this is, "A person with a disability" or even, "A person with a handicap". Put the person first, rather than saying they are a Handicapped or Disabled person. It's better if the emphasis is on the person rather than the disability.
Good on you for picking up on this!

Answer 3

This is one of those ever changing things just like with blacks/African Americans/colored people/the n word - etc. What is acceptable to the handicapped/disabled person and their group of friends may not be an acceptable term for "outsiders" same as with blacks and the word "niggga." I guess some people use the word because they are comfortable with the term. I'm sure everyone is not nit-picky and can understand that the word itself has been around for some time. Also here as of late handicapped people don't like being referred to as "disabled" so it probably is best to use the word handicapped. At least that is what I know from my personal experience with them.

Answer 4

The language changes, and some people are not aware of the negative connotations of "handicapped."

The disabled used to be called "crippled," so people do adapt.

Answer 5

It means the same thing. Some people just prefer the word handicapped. Sort of like beautiful and gorgeous mean the same thing but some people prefer gorgeous over beautiful.

Answer 6

Tell a handicapped person that they are disabled and they will show you that they are quite able to tell you what they think of that.

Answer 7

Over time different words become the 'code word' for something, and then they get replaced by another term. This is true for the words used to refer to all minorities, not just the disabled.
Undoubtedly, in 10 or 15 more years, another set of terms will emerge.
People tend to use the terms that were in effect as they became adults, and stick with them.

Answer 8

I think that handicapped means you can do something with difficulty,while disabled means exactly that, Not able.

Answer 9

Because "Handicapped" is used on public signs. The words are interchangeable.

Answer 10

both mean relativly same thing; handicapped is a little bit more polite and proper. disabled is a strong word.