Social model of disability describes?

• A. Disability is a personal failing
• B. Disability is a medical problem
• C. Disability is only about income
• D. Frames disability as a problem with society, which contains environmental, social, and organizational barriers to those with disabilities

Answer: (D)

Disability is understood through the social model as something created by the way society is organized, not just by a person’s impairment. It focuses on barriers in the environment and in social systems—like buildings without ramps, inaccessible websites, rigid work policies, or attitudes that exclude people with different abilities. When these barriers are removed or reduced through universal design, accommodations, inclusive policies, and supportive practices, participation becomes possible for more people. This contrasts with the idea that disability is simply a medical problem or personal failing—viewpoints that place the burden on the individual rather than on society. So the description that frames disability as a problem with society, which includes environmental, social, and organizational barriers, best captures the social model.