1. Medical Model
Views disability as an individual pathology or medical deficit inherent in the person's body or mind, seeking cure or normalization.
Theoretical Models of Disability
Theoretical models dictate how societies conceptualize, legislate, and accommodate functional differences. Understanding these models explains the paradigm shift toward Universal Design.
2. Social Model
Distinguishes impairment (individual condition) from disability (societal barriers). Asserts that society disables people through exclusionary design.
3. Biopsychosocial Model
Combines biological, individual, and social factors into an integrated view (basis for WHO's ICF framework).
4. Functional Solutions Model
Focuses on practical solutions and assistive technologies to overcome specific functional limitations regardless of philosophy.
5. Economic Model
Defines disability by an individual's inability to participate in work and the economic impact on social safety nets.
6. Charity / Tragedy Model
Presents disabled individuals as victims deserving pity and aid. Strongly rejected by modern disability rights movements.