What are the 5 main models of disability?
1. Medical Model
2. Social Model
3. Functional Solutions Model
4. Social Identity Model
5. Charity/Tragedy
... [Show More] Model
Medical Model of Disability definition
The model defines disability in terms of biological impairments. Disability is viewed as a problem that is caused by medically-diagnosed condition
Medical Model Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
-helps define medical diagnoses and treatment
-helps define who receives government assistance
Weaknesses:
- frequently criticized model
-focusing on biology of person overlooks impact of design decisions in social environment
- makes disability a characteristic of the person, essentially labeling and stigmatizing person as less than
-people who do not fit within clearly defined definition may be denied benefits they need
Social Model Definition
The model says that society creates disabling conditions and that disability is an avoidable condition caused by poor design
Social Model Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
-empowers people with disabilities
-expects that society will create inclusive environments
-empowers designers to think about usability for all people
Weaknesses:
-some say that the model de-emphasizes the physical reality of disability too much
-model doesn't allow people to accept and own their disability
Functional Solutions Model
Model focuses on applying innovative solutions to overcome the limitations created by disabilities. Models approach is used by accessibility professionals
Functional Solutions Model Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
-emphasizes creating accessible environments and getting things done instead of focusing on theory
Weaknesses:
-sometimes people focus so much on the solution that they miss the opportunity to address larger social context.
- addressing larger social context can make a solution obsolete
Social Identity Model
This model says people with disabilities can develop a sense of personal identity from the shared experiences people with disabilities have. These people develop a sense of culture based on the shared experiences. Example: Deaf Culture
Social Identity Model Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- definition helps empower and accept people with disabilities
-forming alliances/social groups means more political power
Weaknesses:
- doesn't serve as good technical definition of disability, bc people with different types of disabilities mingle
- strongly identifying with other people with disabilities could be a result from being excluded from rest of society
Charity/Tragedy Model
Model defines disability as a tragedy or unfortunate condition worthy of special treatment. People take pity on people with disabilities and set up charity events to try and improve conditions of disabled person [Show Less]