Disco vering Potential: Telling New Stories – O’Brien & Mount

Discovering Potential: A Tale of Two Stories

This insightful document, Telling New Stories by John O’Brien and Beth Mount, explores how the narratives we create about individuals with severe disabilities shape their lives and opportunities. ​ Through two contrasting stories about the same man, Mr. Davis, the authors highlight the profound impact of storytelling on human development and service organizations.

The first story, told by professionals, focuses on Mr. Davis’ deficits, using clinical data to justify institutionalization and rigid service plans. ​ It emphasizes compliance and standardized solutions, often isolating him from his community and limiting his potential. ​

The second story, however, is a collaborative effort by those who know and care about Mr. Davis. ​ It celebrates his strengths, preferences, and connections within his family and neighborhood. ​ This narrative inspires action, fostering community involvement and creating opportunities for Mr. Davis to thrive in his environment. ​

The document challenges traditional assumptions about disability services, advocating for a shift from deficit-focused approaches to capacity-building and community integration. ​ It emphasizes the importance of personal commitment, shared action, and listening to the voices of individuals and their support networks. ​

Readers will gain a fresh perspective on how storytelling can transform lives, organizations, and communities. ​ This paper is a call to action for professionals, families, and advocates to embrace new ways of thinking, focusing on empowerment, collaboration, and the discovery of human potential. ​ Dive in to learn how changing the story can change lives. ​