what do we learn from risk.

Certainly! Here's the revised version with that addition:

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**The Balance of Risk and Benefit in Disability: Understanding the Importance of Calculated Risks**

Living with a disability often means that people around you—family, support workers, or even medical professionals—may prioritize safety and duty of care. While safety is essential, it’s also important to recognize that not all risk is bad. In fact, calculated risks can lead to significant learning opportunities and personal growth. Striking the right balance between risk management, duty of care, and the potential benefits of taking a risk is key to developing independence and enhancing life experiences.

### Why Calculated Risks Matter

A calculated risk is not about being reckless; it’s about weighing the potential benefits against the risks and making an informed decision. For individuals with disabilities, taking risks—like trying a new task independently or stepping outside of their comfort zone—can help build skills and confidence.

For example, learning to navigate public transport alone might seem risky, but it also promotes independence and builds problem-solving skills. Without taking these chances, we may miss out on opportunities to grow and gain the experience needed to handle future challenges.

### The Role of Risk Management

Risk management plays a crucial role in balancing safety with personal growth. It involves assessing potential hazards while allowing for freedom and exploration. This doesn’t mean eliminating all risks but creating strategies to minimize them.

For instance, if someone is learning to cook, having the proper tools and safety measures in place, like non-slip mats and easy-grip utensils, can mitigate the risk while still allowing the person to gain a valuable skill. It's about setting up an environment where calculated risks can be taken safely.

### The Impact of Avoiding All Risks

Over-protection can lead to unintended consequences, such as infantilization—the treatment of disabled individuals as if they are children, incapable of making decisions for themselves. When individuals are shielded from all risks, they may be denied the opportunity to develop essential life skills. This can lead to frustration and even outbursts, as they watch others around them grow and take on responsibilities they aren’t given the chance to experience.

Infantilization can be incredibly disempowering. When someone is constantly told “no” or denied the opportunity to take risks, they may feel like they are being held back. This frustration is understandable because they aren’t learning the skills needed for autonomy and independence.

### Duty of Care vs. Risk Benefit

Duty of care means ensuring that those with disabilities are safe and not put in harm’s way. However, it’s important to understand that taking calculated risks can still align with duty of care. Encouraging risk within reason offers numerous benefits: increased confidence, development of problem-solving skills, and a sense of achievement.

There is a balance between ensuring safety and allowing individuals the chance to make decisions, even if they involve some risk. Support staff and caregivers need to recognize that overly protective approaches can prevent the person from fully participating in life and developing their potential.

### Embracing Learning Opportunities

Taking calculated risks isn’t just about the immediate outcome; it’s about the learning process. When individuals with disabilities are allowed to face challenges and even make mistakes, they learn resilience and critical thinking. Mistakes teach valuable lessons that help individuals grow and become more capable in everyday life.

For example, someone might try a new activity and not succeed right away, but the process of figuring out how to improve and adapt can be even more beneficial than succeeding on the first try.

### Conclusion

Balancing risk and benefit in the context of disability requires thoughtful consideration. While safety and duty of care are essential, so is allowing space for calculated risks that encourage growth, learning, and independence. Over-protection can result in infantilization, leading to frustration and emotional outbursts due to a lack of skill development. By creating environments where risks are managed but not eliminated, we can open the door to new opportunities and experiences that enrich life.