Which statement describes the medical model of disability?

Which statement describes the medical model of disability?

• A. A defect or failure of a body system that is abnormal and pathological
• B. Disability is caused by social barriers to participation
• C. Disability is a result of sin or moral failing
• D. Disability is a personal choice

Answer: (A)

The medical model treats disability as a health issue rooted in the body—an impairment or pathological condition. This statement captures that view by describing a defect or failure of a body system that is abnormal and pathological, framing disability as something to diagnose, treat, or cure within the individual. In contrast, disability caused by social barriers reflects the social model, while ideas about sin or personal choice are not medical viewpoints. This is why the statement aligns best with the medical model.

The medical model treats disability as a health issue rooted in the body—an impairment or pathological condition. This statement captures that view by describing a defect or failure of a body system that is abnormal and pathological, framing disability as something to diagnose, treat, or cure within the individual. In contrast, disability caused by social barriers reflects the social model, while ideas about sin or personal choice are not medical viewpoints. This is why the statement aligns best with the medical model.