30/04/2022
Course Title: Inclusiveness
Course code: SNIE 1012
Chapter 1: Understanding Disabilities and Vulnerabilities
1.1 Definitions of Basic Terms (Impairment, Disability and Handicap)
Impairment
It refers to any loss or abnormality of physiological, psychological or anatomical structure or function. It is the absence of particular body part or organ. It could also a condition in which the body exists but doesn‘t function. Some children, for instance, have impairments such as eyes that do not see well, arms and legs that are deformed, or a brain not developing in a typical way etc.
Disability
The term disability is ambiguous as there is no single agreement on the concept (Mitra, 2006)
The medical definition of disability:
Disability means functional limitations due to physical, intellectual or psychic impairment, health or psychic disorders on a person (WHO, 1996). The medical definition has given rise to the idea that people are individual objects to be “treated, changed" or improved" and made more normal. The medical definition views the disabled person as needing to fit in rather than thinking about how society itself should change. This medical definition does not adequately explain the interaction between societal conditions or expectations and unique circumstances of an individual
The social definition of disability:
• Disability is a highly varied and complex condition with a range of implications for social identity and behavior.
• Disability largely depends on the context and is a consequence of discrimination, prejudice and exclusion.
• Emphasizes the shortcomings in the environment and in many organized activities in society, for example on information, communication and education, which prevent persons with disabilities from participating on equal terms.
Causes of disability
Genetic causes: Abnormalities in genes and genetic inheritance can cause intellectual disability in children. In some countries, Down syndrome is the most common genetic condition. Som
