Key Points
The social model of disability views disability as a societal construct, not an individual deficit. Physical and societal barriers create disability.
The medical model focuses on individual deficits, requiring diagnosis and treatment to address limitations.
Both models are deficit-based, but the social model emphasizes societal change for inclusion.
Labels can be positive or negative, depending on individual and societal context.
Cultural backgrounds significantly impact perceptions of disability and the effectiveness of both models.
Internalised societal expectations create additional burdens for individuals navigating disability.
Summary
The Social vs. Medical Model of Disability
The podcast discusses the social and medical models of disability, highlighting their similarities and differences. The social model emphasizes how societal barriers create disability, focusing on structural changes for inclusion rather than individual remediation. In contrast, the medical model views disability as an individual deficit requiring diagnosis and treatment. The speakers note that both models are, in a way, deficit-based, one highlighting societal failures and the other individual limitations. This presents a nuanced perspective, avoiding a simple binary opposition.
Cultural Influences and the Power Dynamic
The discussion extends to the significant influence of cultural backgrounds on how disability is perceived. The western emphasis on individualism contrasts sharply with other societal approaches. This creates a power dynamic where individuals must constantly advocate for themselves within systems not designed for their needs. The medical system, steeped in the Western model, reinforces this power imbalance through diagnoses and treatment plans. This system, often rooted in a narrow definition of normalcy, can further marginalize and traumatize individuals. The speakers emphasize that even the diagnostic tools themselves reflect cultural biases.
Internalised Expectations and Trauma
Internalised societal expectations contribute to the burdens faced by individuals with disabilities. The constant pressure to conform to neurotypical norms leads to burnout and internal conflict. The struggle to be accepted and the fear of rejection further compound this. The discussion illustrates how these internalized pressures become additional barriers. This internal conflict often goes unseen. This creates a significant impact on mental and emotional well-being. The speakers underline the significance of creating supportive spaces where individuals can be accepted for who they are without pressure to conform.
IFS and the Experience of Disability
The conversation connects these concepts to the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model. Within IFS, parts of the system internalise societal expectations as burdens, creating internal conflict. Therapy can help to address these internalised burdens. This can help to support individuals in navigating external societal pressures and find acceptance. The podcast highlights the importance of therapeutic spaces that validate and support individual differences. The discussion concludes by emphasizing the interconnectedness of social, medical, and internal processes in the experience of disability.
Main points of the podcast
00:00 Welcome and Introductions
The hosts, Alessio and Jude, introduce the podcast and their special guest, Isabelle, setting the stage for a discussion on the social model of disability. Each participant shares their identities and backgrounds in the context of IFS and neurodiversity.
03:56 Diving into the Social Model of Disability
Isabelle shares her excitement about the social model of disability, emphasising that disability is a societal construct rather than an individual flaw. She discusses the impact of structural barriers and how society perceives differences as impairments.
06:43 Contrasting Models: Social vs. Medical
The conversation shifts to comparing the social model of disability with the medical model, highlighting how both perspectives often focus on deficits. Isabelle and Jude explore the implications of labels and how they can be both helpful and harmful.
10:03 Cultural Perspectives on Disability
The hosts delve into how cultural backgrounds influence perceptions of disability, particularly contrasting individualistic versus collectivist societies. They discuss the societal expectations that shape how disabilities are viewed and treated.
15:02 The Intersection of Medical and Social Models
The discussion continues with a deep exploration of how the medical model is intertwined with societal norms and expectations. The hosts reflect on the trauma faced by individuals navigating these systems and the complexities of seeking validation.
23:00 Access Fatigue and Self-Advocacy
The conversation shifts to the concept of access fatigue, where individuals must continually advocate for their needs in a society that often overlooks them. The hosts discuss the differences in accessibility and support across various countries.
30:02 Finding Community Among Neurodivergent Folks
In this chapter, the hosts discuss the sense of belonging that comes from connecting with other neurodivergent individuals. They explore the relief of being in spaces where one doesn’t have to constantly advocate for their differences.
31:03 The Impact of Support on Disability
The conversation shifts to the importance of support in understanding disability, particularly in the context of neurodivergence. They reflect on how a lack of support can transform differences into disabilities, emphasizing the need for awareness and understanding in therapeutic settings.
32:40 Navigating Neurotypical Expectations
The hosts delve into the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in a neurotypical world, particularly in work environments. They discuss the societal pressures to conform and the internalized beliefs that can lead to burnout and feelings of inadequacy.
36:12 Privilege and Adaptation in Workspaces
This chapter highlights the role of privilege in shaping work experiences for neurodivergent individuals. The hosts discuss how adapting work environments to fit individual needs can shift challenges into manageable aspects of life.
39:03 Invisible Burdens of Neurodivergence
The conversation touches on the often invisible struggles faced by neurodivergent individuals, such as the social dynamics in workplace settings. They reflect on the missed opportunities and the emotional toll of needing to conform to neurotypical expectations.
42:01 Breaking the Cycle of Internalized Expectations
In this chapter, the hosts discuss the internal battles faced by neurodivergent individuals when prioritizing their needs over societal expectations. They explore the consequences of neglecting self-care in pursuit of acceptance and success.
45:12 Reflections and Future Conversations
As the episode wraps up, the hosts reflect on the importance of discussing these topics and how they challenge traditional views on disability. They express gratitude for the opportunity to share their insights and hint at future discussions on related subjects.
