“Inspiration porn” is a term used to describe a problematic and condescending portrayal of people with disabilities in a way that objectifies or exploits them for the purpose of making non-disabled individuals feel inspired or grateful for their own lives. This term was popularized by disability activists and is used to critique media, stories, or portrayals that focus on a person with a disability overcoming obstacles as a source of inspiration for others.

The term highlights several issues:

• Objectification: Inspiration porn can reduce individuals with disabilities to the status of objects that exist solely to inspire others. It disregards their individuality and personal experiences.
• Patronizing: Such portrayals can come across as patronizing and reinforce stereotypes about people with disabilities as “brave” or “heroic” simply for living their lives.
• Unrealistic expectations: It can set unrealistic expectations for people with disabilities, implying that they should constantly be overcoming obstacles to be deemed valuable or inspirational.
• Emotional manipulation: Some forms of inspiration porn can use emotional manipulation to provoke feelings of pity, guilt, or gratitude in the audience.

Disability rights activists and advocates often call for more authentic and respectful representation of people with disabilities in the media and society. They argue that it is important to focus on the full range of their experiences, challenges, achievements, and contributions rather than objectifying them as sources of inspiration. It’s crucial to promote inclusivity, dignity, and equality for individuals with disabilities rather than reducing them to inspirational objects.