Social model of disability

Definition

The social model of disability argues that disability is not an individual problem, but rather a result of the way society is organized, including physical barriers, discriminatory practices, and social attitudes. It shifts the focus from a person's impairments to the societal structures that disable individuals, emphasizing that change can come from addressing these barriers rather than solely through medical interventions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The social model emphasizes the importance of understanding how societal attitudes and structures contribute to the experience of disability, rather than just focusing on individual limitations.
2. By advocating for changes in policies and practices, the social model seeks to promote greater inclusion and equality for individuals with disabilities in all areas of life.
3. The social model has influenced various fields, including education, employment, and public policy, pushing for environments that accommodate diverse needs.
4. This model encourages the perspective that society should be designed to be inclusive from the start, rather than retrofitting environments after individuals are already marginalized.
5. Critics of the social model argue that it can downplay the personal experiences and challenges faced by individuals with impairments, suggesting a need for a more integrated approach.

Review Questions

• How does the social model of disability differ from the medical model in terms of understanding disability?
  • The social model of disability differs from the medical model by shifting focus away from individual impairments to societal barriers that hinder participation. While the medical model sees disability as a personal deficiency requiring treatment or rehabilitation, the social model emphasizes that it is society's organization—such as physical obstacles and discriminatory attitudes—that creates disability. This perspective highlights that meaningful change involves addressing these societal factors rather than solely focusing on fixing individuals.
• In what ways does the social model of disability influence policy-making and practices in various sectors?
  • The social model of disability significantly influences policy-making by promoting accessibility and inclusion as key components in various sectors like education and employment. By advocating for structural changes—like improving infrastructure, ensuring equal access to services, and altering workplace practices—this model encourages policies that remove barriers faced by individuals with disabilities. This shift towards inclusivity helps create environments where all individuals can participate fully in society.
• Evaluate the strengths and limitations of using the social model of disability as a framework for understanding and addressing disability in society.
  • The strengths of using the social model of disability include its ability to highlight societal responsibilities in creating inclusive environments and to promote collective action for change. It empowers individuals with disabilities by framing their experiences as a result of systemic barriers rather than personal shortcomings. However, its limitations lie in potentially minimizing the complexities of individual experiences, particularly for those with severe impairments who may face additional challenges. A balanced approach that integrates insights from both the social and medical models may be necessary for a comprehensive understanding of disability.

Related terms

Medical model of disability: The medical model views disability as a deficiency or abnormality within an individual, focusing on diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation to 'fix' the person.

Accessibility: Accessibility refers to the design of products, devices, services, or environments for people with disabilities, ensuring they can participate fully in society.

Disability rights movement: A social movement advocating for the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities, challenging societal barriers and promoting equality and access.