Models of disability

Disability is complex, and many theoretical models provide frameworks for understanding it. More models exist than are presented here, but these seven cover many of the major themes of disability models.  

Some models are dehumanizing, and are offensive to disabled people. Some models are more useful than others. No model is complete.  

Medical model 

In the medical model, disability is an individual problem, an impairment in the person that needs to be cured or managed. 

• Strength: This model recognizes that someone may need medical treatment; for example, someone with diabetes may need insulin. 

• Weakness: The medical model doesn't address unwelcoming or inaccessible environments, such as stairs rather than a ramp or level entry to enter a building. The problem is seen as being with the person with the disability. 

Many people with disabilities find this model demeaning and disempowering. Many common phrases and idioms are drawn from this model, and should not be used. 

Social model 

In the social model, society creates barriers that cause disability. Disability is seen as a mismatch between a person and their environment. 

• Strength: With a focus on the disabling conditions in society, this model focuses on removing barriers. 

• Weakness: The social model downplays that someone may need medical treatment to manage their health condition. 

If you are designing or building something, this model is useful for considering what barriers you can avoid or remove. 

Biopsychosocial model 

The biopsychosocial model combines parts of the medical and social models. The World Health Organization uses this model. 

• Strength: This model is broader and includes the physiological aspects of disability along with socioeconomic, socioenvironmental, and cultural factors. 

• Weakness: The model is complex. 

Economic model 

The economic model focuses on a person's ability to contribute to the economy. It is used by policymakers for determining disability benefits. 

• Strength: This model recognizes that disability can affect a person's ability to work and be financially stable. 

• Weakness: People with disabilities are categorized as needy, but some people may not meet the legal definition, and thus may not get the support they need. 

Functional solutions model 

The functional solutions model of disability focuses on creating technological solutions to overcome limitations due to disability. 

• Strength: This model is practical and results oriented. 

• Weakness: The narrow focus on technological solutions for the individual overlooks social and environmental solutions that could fix the issue. Expensive and impractical products may be created by entrepreneurs who don't understand their target audience. 

Social identity or cultural affiliation model 

The social identity model, also called the cultural affiliation model, is based on community, where people embrace disability as part of their identity. This is most evident in Deaf culture. 

• Strength: Disability is accepted and even a point of pride. The group can work together as a community to advocate for change. 

• Weakness: Some people may be excluded because they don't meet a group's expectations.  

Charity model 

In the charity model, people with disabilities are viewed as unfortunate objects of dependence that require assistance to survive and/or prosper in life.  

• Strength: Ties into people's natural desire to help. 

• Weakness: This model is offensive and condescending, making people with disabilities feel like objects of pity.