Evaluate the view that disability is an increasingly important dimension of inequality. Flashcards
P1: How does disability affect educational attainment?
Disabled individuals face barriers such as lack of accessibility, inadequate learning support, and discrimination. Only 25% of disabled individuals hold a degree, compared to 43% of non-disabled people.
How does disability affect employment opportunities?
Disabled individuals face lower hiring rates, lower wages, and fewer career advancements due to workplaces failing to provide reasonable adjustments. The employment rate for disabled men is 51%, compared to 84% for non-disabled men.
How do the medical and social models explain disability inequality?
The medical model suggests disabled people are inherently “less capable,” while the social model (Michael Oliver, 1990) argues that society disables individuals by failing to provide necessary adaptations.
What is the evaluation of policies like the Equality Act 2010?
While policies like the Equality Act 2010 have improved workplace accommodations, enforcement remains inconsistent. Shakespeare and Watson (1993) argue that some disabilities inherently limit work ability, making full equality difficult to achieve.
P2: How does disability lead to social exclusion?
Disabled people experience higher rates of loneliness, discrimination, and barriers to social mobility. They report lower happiness levels (6.4/10) compared to non-disabled people (7.6/10).
How are disabled individuals more vulnerable to crime?
Disabled adults experience higher crime victimisation rates (19%) compared to non-disabled adults (15%). Disabled children are also at greater risk of abuse.
How does Goffman’s (1963) theory explain social exclusion of disabled individuals?
Goffman argues that disabled individuals are stigmatised as “less capable” or “dependent,” leading to exclusion from social and economic activities.
What is the evaluation of the social model in addressing social exclusion?
The social model highlights systemic discrimination, but Morris (1992) critiques it for ignoring the physical and psychological suffering of disabled individuals. Hate crime legislation exists, but crime rates against disabled people remain underreported.
P3:How are disabled individuals portrayed in the media?
Disabled individuals are often depicted as “inspirational heroes” or “tragic victims,” reinforcing the idea that they are “different” rather than ordinary members of society
What is an example of media misrepresentation of disability?
Films like The Theory of Everything (2014) focus on overcoming disability rather than challenging systemic discrimination, perpetuating stereotypes.
How does Goffman’s (1963) concept of stigma apply to media representation?
Negative stereotypes in the media discourage employers and institutions from fully integrating disabled individuals, reinforcing their marginalisation.
What is the evaluation of media representation of disability?
While social media activism has improved representation, systemic issues remain. Disability is often seen as a personal tragedy rather than a social justice issue, and cultural attitudes are slow to change.
