The social model of disability

The social model of disability says that people are disabled by the barriers they face in society and not by their condition or impairment. If we removed these barriers, it would create a more equal society where disabled people can live the lives they choose.

Why is the social model needed?

Disabled people developed the social model in the 1970s and 1980s in reaction to the medical model of disability, more commonly used at that time, which defines people as disabled by their impairments or differences.

The medical model of disability looks at what is ‘wrong’ with an individual or how an impairment should be ‘fixed’ in order to better fit in with society. This model ultimately leads to the individual losing choices and control and restricts them from living as they choose.

What are the barriers?

The barriers faced by disabled people are wide ranging and include cultural and economic barriers, as well as physical design barriers and negative attitudes which often exclude disabled people from wider society. These can include:

• Inaccessible homes
• People’s negative attitudes or prejudice towards disabled people
• Inaccessible educational systems or work environments
• Negative cultural representation, e.g. within film, television, media
• Inaccessible public buildings
• Lack of financial independence

Impact of using the social model

Using the social model of disability changes attitudes towards what disabled people can expect and achieve and how organisations, places and services should be structured and designed. 

The theory actively seeks to create a more inclusive society where everyone can experience the benefits of leading an independent life.