Social Model Of Disability - GCSE Sociology Definition

Reviewed by: Raj Bonsor

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The Social Model of Disability is a way of understanding disability that focuses on how society is organised. Instead of seeing disability as a problem with a person's body or mind, this model suggests that people are disabled by barriers in society. These barriers can include physical obstacles like buildings without ramps or lifts, or barriers such as stereotypes and discrimination. By changing these barriers and making the environment more accessible and inclusive, society can help people with disabilities participate fully. This perspective encourages us to think about how we can make changes to help everyone take part in everyday life equally.

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Raj Bonsor

Reviewer: Raj Bonsor

Expertise: Psychology & Sociology Content Creator

Raj joined Save My Exams in 2024 as a Senior Content Creator for Psychology & Sociology. Prior to this, she spent fifteen years in the classroom, teaching hundreds of GCSE and A Level students. She has experience as Subject Leader for Psychology and Sociology, and her favourite topics to teach are research methods (especially inferential statistics!) and attachment. She has also successfully taught a number of Level 3 subjects, including criminology, health & social care, and citizenship.

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