Growing up with a birthmark and the implications of negative depictions of facial difference on screen Sharon explores the offensive casting for the new Amazon Prime Lord of the Rings series, and what this means to her Different. I got used to that word from an early age. ‘You look different to other kids. Because … Read More
Research into the mental health of people with facial differences
The role of attributions, shame, and self-compassion on the mental health of those with facial differences: Here’s how you can get involved Hi my name is Joel, I am 21 years old and I was born with a congenital facial palsy. I have had facial reanimation surgery to try to improve the movement in the … Read More
To wear a face mask or not…
James Partridge, Founder of Face Equality International Wearing facial protection will soon become normal, according to the World Health Organization’s Covid-19 spokesman David Nabarro in an interview with the BBC: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p089cz1s Despite conflicting evidence about whether face masks are effective in protecting people from Covid-19 (eg: eyes can still be recipients of the droplets), Nabarro … Read More
Chelsey Peat – My Decision Not to Hide
I was born with Sturge-Weber Syndrome, with a large port-wine stain birthmark covering the left side of my head and neck. Lots of extra blood vessels resulted in glaucoma and visible differences in my left eye. Growing up was a struggle, especially in a small town. My nickname from the bullies was “Two Face.” I … Read More
Open Letter to Sir Peter Jackson and Jeff Bezos, CEO Amazon
Recruitment of Orcs Dear Sir Peter and Mr Bezos, It has been widely reported in the UK media this week (see links below) that the casting agencies working on Amazon TV’s new series based on Lord of the Rings are desperately seeking people with “flawed faces” who are “hairy, toothless, wrinkled and extremely tall and … Read More
Facial Expressions and Facial Paralysis – an excerpt from Kathleen Bogart
Kathleen Bogart, Assistant Professor of Psychology, Oregon State University. Making a first impression While facial expressions aren’t the only thing that go into a first impression, they are a pretty big element. So basing our impressions of others on their facial expressions is usually an effective strategy. However, the accuracy of impressions breaks down when … Read More