The social model of disability

An introduction to the key ways of understanding disability, and why the Office for Disability Issues encourages using the social model

What is the social model of disability?

The social model of disability says that disability is created by barriers in society.

These barriers generally fall into three categories:

the environment — including inaccessible buildings and services
people’s attitudes — stereotyping, discrimination and prejudice
organisations — inflexible policies, practices and procedures.

What is the medical model of disability?

Many people think that disability is caused by an individual’s health condition or impairment. This approach is called the medical model of disability.

The medical model says that by fixing their body, disabled people will be able to participate in society like everyone else. This is an outdated model that is not supported by disabled people or their organisations.

Why use the social model of disability?

Using the social model helps identify solutions to the barriers disabled people experience. It encourages the removal of these barriers within society, or the reduction of their effects, rather than trying to fix an individual’s impairment or health condition.

The social model is the preferred model for disabled people. It empowers disabled people and encourages society to be more inclusive. The Office for Disability Issues encourages all government departments to use this model when considering disability.

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Page last reviewed: 04 November 2010