As students currently pursuing senior theses, we understand that research is often viewed as a means to make someone “normal,” or to fix some disability that is seen as a “problem.” We’re aiming not to discourage research but to encourage the right mindset of how to go about it. The view of research as a means through which we “fix” people often invalidates the feelings and suffering of those with disabilities and deficits. In Psalms, we often see David crying out to God, being honest about his frustrations and doubts, but still trusting in Him. From a Christian perspective, we should see people, note and appreciate the unseen, and validate feelings with the end goal of using research as a way to serve them better, and not simply “fix” them. We will examine the mindset that should guide inquiry, highlighting service, holistic care, and unique insights gained from studying disabilities. By appreciating the beauty in the hidden complexity of each person, we can move towards a more thoughtful approach, one in which we inspire not just learners to study the body, but to ponder how to practically apply this mindset in different fields of research.
