4.4. Outline the type of ‘language’ used when applying the social model

This guide will help you answer 4.4. Outline the type of ‘language’ used when applying the social model.

The social model of disability focuses on how society and the environment create barriers for individuals, rather than seeing the individual’s condition as the problem. The goal is to remove these barriers and enable people to live fully inclusive lives. When applying this model, the type of language support workers use is incredibly important. It promotes respect, equality, and empowerment for the people they support.

Using language effectively within the social model ensures people feel valued and understood. Words have the power to shape attitudes and change how people view and treat those with disabilities. In this guide, we cover some of the types of language you should consider when applying this model.

Person-First Language

Person-first language focuses on the individual before their condition. It sees people for who they are, not their disability. For example, instead of saying “disabled person,” you could say “person with a disability.”

This type of language highlights a person’s humanity rather than defining them by their limitations. By putting the person first, it reminds everyone that disability is just one part of who they are, not everything about them.

Examples include:

• “A person who uses a wheelchair” instead of “wheelchair-bound.”
• “A person with hearing loss” instead of “deaf person.”
• “A child with autism” instead of “autistic child.”

Some people may prefer identity-first language (e.g., “autistic person”). It’s always good practice to ask the individual how they wish to be addressed and respect their preference.

Positive and Inclusive Language

Positive language avoids negative or pitying terms. Aim to speak in a way that uplifts the person rather than focusing on what they can’t do. An example is saying “accessible parking” instead of “disabled parking” or “person with a learning difficulty” rather than “mentally handicapped.”

Inclusive language avoids terms that suggest someone is “less than” others. It avoids stereotyping or using words associated with inequality. Here are some examples of words to use and avoid:

Use this:

• “Person with a visual impairment”
• “Accessible entrance”

Avoid this:

• “Blind person”
• “Crippled” or “handicapped”

Neutral and Respectful Terms

Neutral terms avoid emotional bias. This means avoiding words that imply someone is suffering or a victim. For instance, instead of saying “she suffers from cerebral palsy,” say “she has cerebral palsy.” Avoid phrases like “confined to a wheelchair” as it paints a picture of restriction instead of focusing on the support provided by the wheelchair.

Other respectful approaches include:

• Replacing “victim of” with “living with.” For example, “living with multiple sclerosis” instead of “victim of multiple sclerosis.”
• Saying “person with a disability” rather than “the disabled.”

Simplifying Language

Clear communication helps create better understanding. Use plain English and avoid medical jargon unless it is necessary and the person understands it. Over-complicating language can feel intimidating. Instead, choose simple words that respect a person’s intelligence and dignity.

For example:

• Instead of saying “profound communication disorder,” say “significant difficulty with speech.”
• Avoid technical phrases like “comorbidity” unless the person already uses such terms to describe themselves.

Empowering Language

Using empowering language helps the person focus on their strengths and possibilities rather than their limitations. This encourages independence and confidence. For example, instead of saying “she cannot climb stairs,” say “she needs support to access upstairs areas.”

Framing things positively shows that challenges aren’t obstacles but things that can be overcome with the right adjustments or support. This type of language also avoids pity or assumptions about what a person cannot do.

Dialogue with the Individual

The social model advocates for listening to the individual and letting them lead the conversation about their needs. Asking how they describe their situation and what language they feel comfortable with ensures that your communication respects their preferences. Some people might be comfortable with certain words that others may find offensive. Tailor your language based on the person’s own choices.

For example:

• Someone with a hearing impairment might identify as “Deaf” and see this as a key part of their identity. Respect and use the term they feel best represents them.
• Other individuals may prefer “hard of hearing” and reject the label “Deaf.”

Avoiding Stereotypes

The social model rejects stereotypes that paint disabled people as either heroes for “overcoming” their disability or as helpless individuals. When speaking, avoid language that exaggerates or minimises their experiences.

For example, avoid phrases such as:

• “He’s so brave for living with that condition.”
• “She’s an inspiration just for coming to school.”

These statements can feel patronising and reduce the person’s everyday actions to something extraordinary, based solely on their disability.

Focus instead on normalising their achievements and recognising their strengths in the same way you would for someone without a disability.

Speaking About Accessibility

The social model doesn’t frame the person’s condition as the problem – it sees the environment as the issue. Use language that shifts responsibility onto society to adapt, rather than on individuals to fit in. Talk about situations in terms of barriers, such as lack of accessible buildings or discrimination in the workplace.

Examples include:

• “The building needs a lift installed” rather than “he can’t access this building.”
• “Let’s adjust communication to include everyone” instead of “she can’t participate because of her disability.”

This phrasing focuses on what can be done to create equality rather than focusing on a person’s limitations.

Avoiding Problematic Terms

Certain outdated or offensive terms should never be used. They reflect the medical model, which sees disability as something to “fix.” Here are a few examples of terms to avoid and better alternatives:

• Avoid: “Disabled person” – Use: “Person with a disability”
• Avoid: “Crippled” – Use: “Person with a physical impairment”
• Avoid: “Deaf and dumb” – Use: “Person with a hearing impairment”

Biggest tip: be kind and thoughtful. If you aren’t sure whether a term is offensive, don’t use it.

Being Person-Centred and Flexible

Language often needs to change depending on the person you’re speaking about. Being person-centred means valuing an individual’s preferences above all else. Contact with individuals is never one-size-fits-all. Always aim to address people in the way that respects their freedom and integrity.

For example, some people actively embrace a term you might think is offensive, like “disabled.” They may see this term as empowering. In this case, respect their choice and adopt their preferred language.

Feedback and Learning

We all make mistakes when adapting our language. What matters is being open to feedback and learning from these moments. If someone corrects your language, try not to react defensively or feel embarrassed. Apologise, adjust your wording, and focus on improving next time.

This attitude creates trust and shows your commitment to promoting inclusivity.

Why Language Matters

The way you speak shapes how others think. Using inclusive, positive, and person-centred words uplifts individuals and avoids reinforcing negative stereotypes. It helps build a fairer, more equal society where people’s abilities are valued, and their barriers are addressed.

By being thoughtful and intentional in your communication, you reflect the core principles of the social model: respecting the individual, focusing on societal issues, and promoting empowerment.