4. Outline and briefly evaluate the view that individuals with disabilities find it very difficult to create a positive disabled identity.
OCR
A Level
2024
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Introduction
Introduce the essay topic: exploring the view that individuals with disabilities find it difficult to create a positive disabled identity. Briefly mention the core arguments that will be explored, including the social model of disability, the impact of societal attitudes, and counter-arguments highlighting positive developments and individual agency.
Arguments Supporting the Difficulty of Creating a Positive Disabled Identity
The Social Model of Disability
Explain the social model of disability, emphasizing how it views disability as a product of social barriers and discrimination rather than an inherent limitation. Provide examples of how these barriers create a negative and disabling environment.
Negative Attitudes and Socialisation
Discuss how negative attitudes and societal prejudices contribute to the difficulty of forming a positive identity.
- Highlight research and actions by organizations like Scope to combat negative stereotypes.
- Mention Shakespeare's work on the socialisation of disabled individuals as victims and the lack of a collective identity leading to isolation.
- Discuss Oliver's research on the disempowering nature of disability research.
- Explore the impact of the built environment on disability, drawing on Barnes' work.
Stigma, Shame, and Labelling
Analyze the role of stigma, shame, and labelling in shaping a negative disabled identity.
- Explain the concept of master-status and how it can overshadow other aspects of a person's identity.
- Discuss the concept of learned helplessness and its potential impact on identity development.
Language and Socialisation
Examine how language itself can contribute to a negative disabled identity.
- Provide examples of negative terms used to describe disability, such as "dis-abled," "dis-eased," and "in-valid."
- Use Zola's work to illustrate the impact of language on perception.
- Discuss Gill's research on the association of disability with pity in later life.
Arguments Against the Difficulty of Creating a Positive Disabled Identity
Individual Agency and Self-Identity
Present Murugami's (2009) view that individuals with disabilities can construct a self-identity that embraces their impairment while remaining independent of it.
Positive Developments and Role Models
Highlight positive developments and changing perceptions.
- Mention the increased media exposure and positive portrayal of disabled individuals in recent years, citing examples like the Paralympics and programmes like "The Last Leg."
- Discuss the role of positive role models in shaping a more inclusive and positive view of disability.
Government Action and Legal Frameworks
Address the impact of government action and legal frameworks in promoting a more positive disability agenda.
- Mention the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 and Equality Act 2010, highlighting their role in creating a fairer and more inclusive society.
Technological Advancements and Changing Perceptions
Consider the role of technology, specifically advancements like prosthetic limbs, in changing perceptions and creating a more positive view of disability.
Conclusion
Conclude by summarizing the key arguments presented, acknowledging the complexities involved in constructing a positive disabled identity.
- Provide a balanced assessment, recognizing both the challenges and the potential for empowerment and self-definition.
- Suggest that while social barriers and negative attitudes still exist, individual agency, positive social changes, and technological advancements are contributing to a more inclusive and hopeful future for people with disabilities.
Sociology Essay: Disability and Identity
This essay will outline and evaluate the view that individuals with disabilities find it very difficult to create a positive disabled identity. It will explore the sociological perspectives and evidence that both support and challenge this viewpoint, ultimately arguing that while societal barriers persist, individuals with disabilities are increasingly able to forge positive identities.
The Social Model and Negative Identity
The social model of disability posits that it is not the impairment itself, but rather societal barriers and discrimination, that disable individuals. This resonates with the view that negative disabled identities are socially constructed. Shakespeare (1996), for instance, argues that disabled people are often socialised into seeing themselves as victims, internalising negative societal perceptions. This is further exacerbated by the lack of a collective identity, leading to isolation and hindering the development of positive self-images.
Barnes (1991) reinforces this by highlighting how the built environment itself can be disabling, limiting access and participation for those with impairments. This, coupled with negative language and labelling – as explored by Zola (1988) who critiques terms like "dis-abled" and "in-valid" – contributes to a pervasive sense of 'otherness' that makes it challenging to foster positive identities.
Stigma, Shame, and Learned Helplessness
The stigma surrounding disability often leads to shame, further hindering the development of positive self-perception. Goffman's (1963) concept of 'stigma' illustrates how societal reactions can mark individuals as different and devalued. This can result in 'learned helplessness' where individuals internalise limitations and perceive themselves as incapable, as highlighted by Oliver (1990).
Furthermore, the concept of 'master status' is relevant here. As Hughes (1945) argued, certain social identities can become all-encompassing, overshadowing other aspects of the self. Disability, unfortunately, often becomes a master status, making it difficult for individuals to see themselves beyond their impairment.
Changing Perceptions and Empowering Identities
However, it's crucial to acknowledge the evolving landscape and the growing evidence challenging the idea that positive disabled identities are unattainable. Murugami (2009) argues that individuals can construct self-identities that accept their impairment without being defined by it. This is supported by the increasing visibility and positive representation of disability in the media, particularly through events like the Paralympics and programs like "The Last Leg."
Furthermore, legislation such as the Disability Discrimination Act (1995) and the Equality Act (2010) have played a vital role in promoting inclusion and challenging discrimination. This legal framework, coupled with the work of organizations like Scope, which actively combats negative attitudes, demonstrates a societal shift towards greater acceptance and understanding.
Technological advancements, particularly in prosthetics, have also contributed to changing perceptions. These technologies empower individuals, challenging traditional notions of disability and enabling them to engage in activities previously deemed impossible. This can be profoundly empowering, fostering self-confidence and positive self-image.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while societal barriers and negative perceptions persist, making it undoubtedly challenging for individuals with disabilities to construct positive identities, the assertion that it is "very difficult" requires nuance. The social model highlights the significant impact of societal structures and attitudes, perpetuating negative stereotypes and limiting opportunities. However, increasing positive representation, evolving legislation, and technological advancements are challenging these barriers and fostering a climate where positive disabled identities are becoming more attainable. While challenges remain, the journey towards greater inclusion and the empowerment of individuals with disabilities to define their own narratives continues to gain momentum.
Free Mark Scheme Extracts
The Social Model of Disability
The social model of disability argues that discrimination and social barriers turn disability into a negative identity. This model emphasizes that disability is not an inherent characteristic of an individual but rather a product of societal attitudes, structures, and practices.
Research and Action by Scope
Scope is an organization that actively researches and works to eradicate negative attitudes around disability. Their efforts aim to encourage a more inclusive and positive perception of disability within society.
Shakespeare and the Social Model
Shakespeare, a renowned scholar in disability studies, highlights how disabled people are often socialized into seeing themselves as victims. He also points out the lack of a collective identity among disabled individuals, leading to feelings of isolation and marginalization.
Oliver and the Disempowering Nature of Research
Oliver, another prominent figure in the field, argues that traditional research methods tend to disempower people with disabilities. He emphasizes the need for research that centers the voices and experiences of disabled individuals.
Barnes and the Disabling Built Environment
Barnes underscores the role of the built environment in contributing to disability. He argues that many physical structures and spaces are designed and built in ways that create barriers for people with disabilities, thus perpetuating their exclusion and marginalization.
Stigma, Shame, and Labeling
Stigma, shame, and labeling are key factors that contribute to the negative social construction of disability. These factors often lead to the formation of a "master-status" where a person's disability becomes their defining characteristic, overshadowing their other identities and capabilities.
Learned Helplessness
Learned helplessness is a psychological phenomenon that can develop in individuals who repeatedly experience negative or uncontrollable situations. This can result in feelings of hopelessness, powerlessness, and a lack of agency, further reinforcing the negative societal perception of disability.
Language and Socialization
The language used to describe disability can also contribute to its negative social construction. Terms like "dis-abled," "dis-eased," and "in-valid" perpetuate a sense of deficiency and lack. Zola, a prominent researcher, highlights this issue in his work.
Gill and Disability in Later Life
Gill focuses on the specific challenges faced by people with disabilities in later life. He emphasizes the role of pity and societal assumptions that often hinder the well-being and agency of older adults with disabilities.
Evidence Against the View
Counterarguments
While the social model of disability holds significant weight, there are also arguments that challenge its absoluteness. Here are some counterpoints:
Murugami's Research
Murugami (2009) proposes that a disabled person can construct a self-identity that accepts their impairment but is independent of it. This highlights the agency and resilience of individuals with disabilities in shaping their own narratives.
Positive Media Representations
In recent years, the profile of people with disabilities has improved significantly, accompanied by increased media exposure. Events like the Paralympics, programs like "The Last Leg," and the presence of positive role models have challenged negative stereotypes and promoted inclusion.
Government Policies and Legislation
The government and law have increasingly adopted a more positive and inclusive disability agenda. Acts like the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 and the Equality Act 2010 have aimed to create a fairer and more equitable society for individuals with disabilities.
Technological Advancements
Technological advancements, such as prosthetic limbs, are changing perceptions and empowering individuals with disabilities. These innovations allow for increased mobility, independence, and participation in various aspects of life.