Models of Disability

Here at the University of Toronto Mississauga we strive to ensure that the campus is an inclusive and accessible community by addressing and eliminating barriers for persons with disabilities, both physical and attitudinal.

At Accessibility Services the staff strive to promote inclusive values on campus in academic and co-curricular activities.  We view disability as a positive individual difference and encourage the development of disability pride.

Medical Model (OLD)

Interactional or Socio-Political Model (NEW)

Disability is a deficiency or abnormality.

Disability is a difference.

Being disabled is negative.

Being disabled, in itself, is neutral.

Disability resides in the individual.

Disability derives from the interaction between the individual and society.

The remedy for disability-related problems is cure or normalization of the individual.

The remedy for disability-related problems is a change in the interaction between the individual and society.

The agent of remedy is the professional.

The agent of remedy is the individual, an advocate or anyone who affects the arrangements between the individual and society.

Source: Carol J. Gill, Chicago Institute of Disability Research