Pediatric Rehabilitation Member Community Lecture Series: Disability Education: Models of Disability-Session Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dinesh Ratnasingham surveys major models of disability and their effects on how disabled people are understood and supported. The moral model frames disability as sin or personal failing, fostering shame and isolation. The medical model locates the problem in the individual and prioritizes treatment or cure, while often overlooking social barriers. Rehabilitation focuses on helping people adapt and participate, but may leave structural inequities unaddressed. In contrast, the social and diversity models emphasize societal barriers, identity, human rights, and inclusion, though critics note they may understate impairment-related needs. The biopsychosocial/WHO ICF framework considers health, personal factors, activities, participation, and the environment. The welfarist and capability approaches add well-being, freedom, choice, and equity. No single model fits everyone or every stage of a person’s journey. Ratnasingham encourages clinicians to understand patients’ goals, use respectful language, recognize each model’s limits, and provide comprehensive, person-centered care.

Keywords

disability models

moral model

medical model

social model

biopsychosocial framework

person-centered care