Embracing Neurodiversity: Unpacking the Social Disability Model and the Role of Universal Design

Dec 1

I left special education because of the governmental requirements that required students to be labeled with a “learning disability” to gain access to the type of instruction they required, combined with the standardized tests used to measure students’ “grade-level skills,” which only measures what a student can do in a specific amount of time, in a stressful environment, on a test that uses a small segment of the population to create normal “grade-level skills” for every student. I couldn’t be a part of it any longer.

I often sent out test scores from these tests to other schools to represent the student’s skills. These tests would label the students' reading level below grade level because they did not read

Image for a blog on the Social Disability Model and the Role of Universal Design in neurodiversity by Gail Suitor, of Ignite Change Makers.

fast enough, even though they could read grade-level text with 98% accuracy and get above 80% on comprehension questions. They read 80 words per minute versus 120, labeled students as sub-standard. These scores affected how the students were seen by their teachers and themselves, creating an unfair and destructive stigma. 
Therefore, as we approach International Disabilities Day on December 3rd, we must explore the Social Disability Model and its correlation with neurodiversity. This blog delves into the intricacies of the Social Disability Model, shedding light on its connection with neurodivergence and how it contributes to reshaping societal attitudes toward individuals with neurodivergent conditions. Additionally, we'll explore the concept of Universal Design as a transformative approach to addressing the challenges posed by the Social Disability Model.

Understanding the Social Disability Model:

The Social Disability Model takes center stage, emphasizing societal barriers, such as ineffective instruction, and prejudices, such as everyone needs to read at the same rate,  that create disabling conditions for neurodivergent individuals. Unlike the Medical Model, which perceives neurodivergent traits as inherent deficits, the Social Disability Model focuses on social constructs and norms hindering full participation in various aspects of life, such as getting an education.

Universal Design: A Solution to Social Disability

Universal Design is an approach to creating environments, products, and systems that are inherently accessible and usable by people of all abilities, ages, and backgrounds. The goal is to eliminate barriers and ensure inclusivity for everyone, regardless of individual characteristics or differences. For neurodivergent individuals, Universal Design can significantly enhance accessibility and support their diverse needs. Here are some examples of Universal Design features that benefit neurodivergent people:

Sensory-Friendly Spaces: Designing environments with consideration for sensory sensitivities, such as reducing harsh lighting, minimizing loud noises, and providing quiet spaces, benefits individuals with conditions like autism and sensory processing disorders.

Clear Communication Channels: Implementing clear and straightforward communication methods, including visual cues, symbols, and written instructions, aids individuals with communication & memory challenges, such as those with ADHD or language processing difficulties.

Flexible Workspaces: Creating flexible and adaptable workspaces accommodates various work styles and preferences, benefiting neurodivergent individuals who may thrive in different environments or need personalized work arrangements.

Alternative Learning Materials: Offering alternative learning materials and formats, such as visual aids, interactive platforms, and multimedia resources, supports neurodivergent individuals with different learning needs or benefit from varied approaches.

Structured Routines: Implementing structured routines and clear schedules in educational and work settings assists individuals with conditions like ADHD or autism by providing predictability and reducing anxiety.

Assistive Technologies: Integrating assistive technologies, like screen readers, speech-to-text applications, and other accessibility tools, enhances the usability of digital platforms and communication for individuals with various cognitive or physical disabilities.

Inclusive Social Spaces: Designing social spaces that promote inclusivity and understanding helps neurodivergent individuals navigate social interactions more comfortably, fostering a sense of belonging and reducing social anxiety.

Individualized Support Services: Offering individualized support services, such as mentorship programs or counseling, provides neurodivergent individuals with the guidance and assistance they need to thrive in educational or workplace environments.

Visual Supports: Incorporating visual supports, like visible schedules, charts, and diagrams, aids neurodivergent individuals in understanding and following instructions, particularly those with challenges related to executive function.

Consideration for Executive Function Challenges: Designing systems that account for executive function challenges, such as difficulty with organization and planning, can include features like reminders, checklists, and organizational tools.

Shifting Perspectives:

By adopting the Social Disability Model and incorporating Universal Design principles, we shift the narrative from perceiving neurodivergent conditions as inherently problematic to recognizing the impact of societal structures. This model encourages identifying and dismantling systemic barriers, while Universal Design ensures that new structures are inherently inclusive.

Challenging Stigmas:

The combined power of the Social Disability Model and Universal Design challenges stigmas associated with neuro-distinctions, emphasizing that disability arises from social factors rather than inherent deficits. This perspective shift allows society to move away from pathologizing neurodivergent conditions and instead focus on creating accessible and accommodating spaces for different thinkers and learners.

Empowering Neurodiverse Individuals:

Embracing the Social Disability Model alongside Universal Design empowers neuro-distinct and neuro-typical individuals by acknowledging their strengths and unique perspectives. This dual approach reframes neurodiversity as celebrating differences and fostering environments that nurture diverse talents.

Promoting Inclusivity:

To foster a truly inclusive society, recognizing and challenging societal norms contributing to social disability is imperative. By dismantling these barriers through Universal Design, we pave the way for a world where neurodiversity is embraced, valued, and integrated into every aspect of life.

Conclusion:

Incorporating the Social Disability Model and Universal Design into our understanding of neurodiversity marks a transformative shift. Addressing societal barriers and embracing inclusive design principles contribute to creating a more inclusive and accepting world, celebrating neurodiversity as a fundamental aspect of the human species, which is especially relevant as we observe International Disabilities Day on December 3rd.

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Hey There, I’m Gail Suitor

Living and working with a neurodivergent brain can be challenging. I know because I have one, raised three, and taught many over 25+ years.

I help learning disabled people break free from labels so that they can appreciate their unique brains, ignite their brilliance, follow their passions, and become the change makers they were born to be.

My Change Maker Accelerator Program uses Mastermind Pods to help participants learn the 7 strategies of highly effective neurodiverse people so that they can discover their superpowers, develop their Ultimate Change Maker Blueprint, and create the life they want.