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The
Symbol:
Mairian Corker (1994)
describes this type and the corresponding work situation in terms of tokenism. However, although the situation she describes is
similar I believe the motivation in mental health work
is different. The symbol enters
the team as a deaf professional, respected by deaf and hearing people alike. He/she has good achievements and has an
involvement with deaf people and a place in the community. He/she is a high achiever. Much is expected and much can be achieved. However, there is a constant struggle against two
major limiting factors - the hearing peoples grip on the power in the team and the
lack of real support. What may not be
realised is that the higher the performance of the deaf person, the more the need for support services - interpreting, note-taking,
translations. To be effective the promised
services must be in place. Because of
his/her skills and knowledge, this person may cover up
a lot of the difficulties in deference to the opportunity which he/she has been offered
and in response to the implicit pressure of other deaf peoples needs. When
symbols from different teams or sections get together they are able to exchange their
understanding and can feel able to challenge the provision levels but in reality, they
feel no major changes can be achieved until deaf people occupy all the main positions in
the team. |
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