Salesforce User Experience Designer Practice Exam

What distinguishes the social definition from the medical definition of disability?

1. A. The social definition means that people communicate more.

2. B. The social definition recognizes disability as mismatches between individual capabilities and environmental demands.

3. C. The medical model views disability as a consequence of physiological differences.

4. D. Both B and C are accurate.

The correct answer is: D. Both B and C are accurate.

The distinction between the social and medical definitions of disability is primarily rooted in their perspectives on the nature of disability itself. The social definition emphasizes that disability arises from the interaction between individuals and their environment. It highlights that disabilities occur not just because of inherent limitations or impairments in an individual but rather due to societal barriers, stigmas, and a lack of accommodation. This definition leads to the understanding that creating an inclusive environment can often alleviate the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. Hence, recognizing disability as mismatches between individual capabilities and environmental demands captures the essence of this perspective. On the other hand, the medical model views disability as primarily a consequence of physiological differences or impairments within an individual. This model focuses on diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation, suggesting that the issue lies within the person, rather than considering external factors that might contribute to their experience of disability. This narrower view can lead to limited solutions that concentrate primarily on fixing the individual rather than addressing societal and environmental changes needed to support them. Both of these perspectives – the social definition focusing on environmental mismatches and the medical definition viewing disability through the lens of physiological differences – are fundamental to understanding the broader conversation about disability, thus making the combination of both perspectives a comprehensive answer to what distinguishes them.