They certainly can, but not all do. Dragons are so far removed from the accepted paradigm that most people haven''t even seriously considered their existence, but many are tolerant enough to approach the idea objectively once it''s presented. My friends (and parents!) have all come to terms with my draconity, and I've explained the situation to many strangers with favorable receptions. (Other dragons haven''t been nearly as lucky, and my heart goes out to the ones whose parents won''t accept them.)

Opinions vary from individual to individual, and depend largely on culture, upbringing, willingness to listen, and level of ingrained skepticism. A common attitude I've seen is that someone can''t personally believe in dragons, but accepts that I believe I am one -- which works for me; as long as they respect my view of reality I am quite willing to respect theirs.

Of course, whether draconity is accepted or rejected by "the mainstream" does not make it any more or less real. The only opinion that counts, for your reality, is yours.