When communicating with people who have physical or psychological disabilities, you should ...

• A. Speak slower and louder
• B. Use complex vocabulary
• C. Minimize barriers to communication
• D. Assume needs

Answer: (C)

Minimizing barriers to communication is the key idea. When you communicate with people who have physical or psychological disabilities, the goal is to make your message as clear and accessible as possible by removing obstacles that could hinder understanding. This means adapting how you share information to fit the person’s needs—speak at a comfortable pace and in plain language, offer alternative formats (written notes, sign language, visual aids), ensure the environment is accessible, and check for understanding rather than guessing what they need.

This approach respects autonomy and reduces miscommunication, which is especially important in corrections settings where safety and clarity are critical. It also avoids common pitfalls: simply speaking slower and louder can distort meaning and come across as patronizing; using complex vocabulary creates unnecessary barriers; and assuming needs takes away the person’s agency to express how they want to be communicated.