terms

Disability

Disability is the disadvantage or restriction of activity caused by a social organisation which takes little account of people who have impairments and thus excludes them from taking part in the mainstream of social activities.

Disability, like sexism and racism, is a particular form of discrimination and leads to oppression.

social model vs medical model

YP-in works in the social model of disability, not the medical model. There are some fundamental differences between the two.

The problem

In the social model, the problem is society - specifically the barriers in society which exclude Disabled People.
In the medical model the problem is the person - they are faulty.

Viewed in the social model, the effect of the problem is that society's failure to remove barriers causes segregation, dependency, limited opportunity, discrimination and oppression.

Viewed in the medical model, the effect of the problem is that Disabled People have a restricted life because they are not full functional human beings.

The solution to the problem

The social model recommends civil rights legislation covering employment, education, transport, access to buildings and services.

The medical model recommends cures, drugs, therapy, diet, exercise and rehabilitation and 'special' services to make Disabled People more normal.

The attitude

In the social model, Disabled People have independence, control and choice. Professionals receive support and assistance. The public respects and values Disabled People.

In the medical model, Disabled People become the victim, client, have no responsibilities an are disempowered. Professionals have the power and control. The public becomes segregated from Disabled People, so fear sets in.

segregation, separation, integration, inclusion