Disability Models

The way that disability is understood varies widely depending on the perspective of the viewer. The medical model views disability as a defect of the person affected, and that the disability is something that should be fixed. The biopsychosocial model views disability as a more holistic approach, and that there are both social and psychological aspects that impact biological disabilities. 


Taking a deeper look at the medical model of disability, it views disability as something that needs to be "fixed". It sees disability as such a negative thing, and that the impairment is a direct result of illness, physical disability, or cognitive disorder. 

This model also neglects to acknowledge that there are other factors, such as social, psychological, or environmental factors that create barriers or obstacles for those with a disability.

This approach is traditional and quite outdated. It sets those with a disability up to be viewed as hopeless and less than able bodied people. 

In comparison, the biopsychosocial model of disability incorporates several aspects into how one should view a disability. 

This model emphasizes the connection between biology, social life experiences and environment, and psychological aspects like well-being and self esteem. This view is more integrated than the previously accepted medical model. 

The biopsychosocial model also blames society for the way they treat individuals with disabilities. Often, the world is not accessible to someone with a disability in the way that it is for an able bodied person. Job opportunities, building accessibility, and negative stereotypes attribute to a skewed society.

These societal limitations placed on those with a disability are so great, that often we do not see individuals get the opportunity to reach their full potential. Society must change to be more accepting and more accessible to those with a disability.

So many athletes, actors, authors, and
with a disability are able to reach their full potential when we give them the resources they need to be successful. Their disability is not seen as a negative thing, but as a minor obstacle they overcame to be where they are in life. 

The negative stereotypes that exist often outweigh the impact of the disability on the individual. Society must become more accommodating to those with a disability so they are able to receive equal opportunities as able bodied persons are. 


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