Origins of conflicting professional and consumer images of blindness.

The conflict and sometimes resulting hostility between consumer organizations of persons who are blind and some rehabilitation agencies is a source of concern and puzzlement to many outside observers. The growth of such organizations in terms of legislative efforts, self-help groups, education of the public, and the efforts to develop human potential would appear to be consistent with the frequently stated goals of rehabilitation programs. In most areas of disability, consumer organizations are flourishing; however, many people who are blind are now questioning the value of some…