The Social Model of Disability
How this aligns with the neurodiversity paradigm
My philosophy aligns with the social model of disability, and with the neurodiversity paradigm.
These philosophies are in stark contrast to the pathologization of divergent brains and bodies.
Where the pathology paradigm asks questions such as “what is wrong with the individual?”, the social model of disability asks questions such as “what are the barriers to accessibility and inclusion?”
The pathology paradigm places the onus on the individual to adapt to the typical majority; their differences are medicalized, and seen as problems to overcome.
In terms of being Autistic and ADHD, the medical model sees them only as “disorders” which leads to harmful behavioural approaches, in which the individual is expected to adapt and change — sometimes suppress the very essence of who they are — in order to please the neurotypical majority.
The social model and neurodiversity paradigm see divergent neurotypes as a benefit to our society in many ways, including — but not limited to — innovation, creativity, divergent thinking, and artistic talents, among many others.
When an individual encounters difficulties, the social model does not ask what is wrong with the person…
