What are difference between medical model and social model of disability?
The medical model of disability views disability as an individual problem that needs to be fixed or cured. It emphasizes the person's impairment or condition as the primary cause of disability and focuses on providing medical treatment or therapy to enable them to become as "normal" as possible. This model often puts the responsibility on the person with the disability to adapt to society's expectations and norms.
On the other hand, the social model of disability sees disability as a result of the way society is organized and the barriers it creates, rather than an individual flaw. It recognizes that disability is not solely caused by a person's impairment but is also a product of social attitudes, physical and communication barriers, and discriminatory practices. The social model emphasizes the need to remove these barriers and promote inclusivity, accessibility, and equal opportunities for all individuals, irrespective of their impairments.
In summary, the medical model focuses on the individual and seeks to fix or cure their impairment, whereas the social model looks at how society can be more inclusive and accessible for people with disabilities.
The medical model and social model of disability offer different perspectives on understanding and addressing disabilities. Here are the key differences between the two:
1. Definition of disability:
- Medical model: The medical model views disability as an individual health condition or impairment that needs to be treated or cured. It places the focus on the person's physical or mental impairment and their limitation in functioning.
- Social model: The social model defines disability as a result of the interaction between an individual with an impairment and a society that is not fully inclusive and accommodating. It places the emphasis on the barriers and societal structures that prevent individuals with disabilities from fully participating in society.
2. Cause of disability:
- Medical model: This model primarily attributes the cause of disability to biophysical factors, such as genetics, illness, or injury.
- Social model: The social model highlights that disabilities are not solely caused by physical or mental impairments. It emphasizes that societal barriers and attitudes play a significant role in disabling individuals by restricting their access to education, employment, transportation, and other essential resources.
3. Approach to disability:
- Medical model: The medical model focuses on diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating individuals with disabilities. It often emphasizes medical interventions, therapies, and technological aids to help individuals function better in society.
- Social model: The social model advocates for removing societal barriers and addressing the root causes of disability. It highlights the importance of inclusive policies, accessible environments, and equal opportunities to enable individuals with disabilities to participate fully in society.
4. Power dynamics and agency:
- Medical model: The medical model often positions professionals (such as doctors, therapists, and experts) as authorities who diagnose and determine the needs and treatments for individuals with disabilities.
- Social model: The social model emphasizes the importance of empowering individuals with disabilities to be actively involved in decision-making processes, advocating for their own needs and rights, and participating in shaping policies and practices that affect them.
5. Focus on accommodations:
- Medical model: The medical model primarily focuses on providing individual accommodations and supports to assist individuals with disabilities in adapting to society.
- Social model: The social model places greater emphasis on society's responsibility to create inclusive and accessible environments, removing barriers and providing universal design that benefits everyone, including individuals with disabilities.
It's important to note that while the medical and social models offer different frameworks for understanding disability, many people and organizations now recognize the limitations of the medical model and increasingly adopt a social model perspective that highlights the importance of social inclusion, accessibility, and equal rights for individuals with disabilities.