3.2. Evaluate the impact of the medical and social models of learning disability on practice

This guide will help you answer 3.2. Evaluate the impact of the medical and social models of learning disability on practice.

The medical and social models of learning disability are two key perspectives influencing health and social care practice. Each model impacts how learning disabilities are understood and addressed, shaping attitudes, approaches, and policies. Understanding these models and evaluating their impact on practice is crucial for providing effective and inclusive care.

The Medical Model

The medical model views learning disabilities as issues rooted in the individual. It focuses on diagnosis, treatment, and management of the disability. This perspective often considers learning disabilities as a problem that needs fixing or curing.

For example, a person with Down’s syndrome might be seen primarily in terms of the biological and cognitive impairments associated with the condition. Medical professionals may suggest interventions such as medication, therapy, or special education approaches to improve the individual’s functioning.

Impact on Practice

The medical model has both positive and negative effects on practice. Below are some key ways it impacts the care provided:

Positive Impacts

• Early Identification: The focus on diagnosing conditions can lead to early identification of learning disabilities. This ensures interventions and support can begin sooner, potentially improving outcomes for individuals.
• Structured Interventions: The medical model provides a clear framework for developing treatment plans. For example, speech, occupational, or physical therapies can help individuals develop certain skills.
• Specialist Support: The model enables access to a range of specialists, such as clinical psychologists and psychiatrists, who assess and treat learning disabilities.

Negative Impacts

• Labelling and Stigma: The medical model can lead to individuals being defined by their disability. Labelling may result in stigma or discrimination, affecting a person’s self-esteem and how they are treated by others.
• Focus on Deficits: By concentrating on what a person cannot do, this model often overlooks their strengths, abilities, and potential.
• Medicalisation of Everyday Life: Some critics argue the medical model unnecessarily over-medicalises normal behaviours or differences, reducing the focus on social and environmental factors.

The Social Model

The social model takes a different approach. It views learning disabilities as created or exacerbated by societal barriers rather than the individual themselves. These barriers can include physical inaccessibility, limited opportunities, and negative attitudes.

For example, a person with autism might face challenges not because of their autism, but due to societal ignorance or a lack of adjusted environments, such as quiet spaces.

Impact on Practice

The social model has reshaped care practice, promoting inclusion, empowerment, and equality. It emphasises removing barriers and adapting environments to support individuals with learning disabilities.

Positive Impacts

• Promoting Inclusion: The social model encourages inclusive practices by focusing on how settings can be adapted. For example, ensuring schools provide accessible classrooms allows individuals to learn alongside their peers.
• Empowering Individuals: This model values personal strengths and preferences. For instance, an adult with a learning disability might be supported to live more independently through training or adjustments.
• Challenging Prejudice: Education and advocacy based on the social model help reduce stigma and discrimination. It shifts the focus away from “what’s wrong” with the individual to recognising societal biases.

Negative Impacts

• Inconsistent Application: While the social model promotes awareness, it is not always consistently applied. This can result in differing levels of support depending on the organisation or professional involved.
• Overlooking Medical Needs: Critics argue that the social model, at times, downplays the biological aspects of learning disabilities, which may still require attention.

Differences Between the Models

Understanding the differences can help evaluate how each model contributes to care:

• Focus: The medical model focuses on the individual’s condition, while the social model targets external barriers.
• Goals: The medical model aims to manage or treat disabilities. The social model champions adaptability and inclusion.
• Control: The medical model often places control with professionals. The social model emphasises the individual’s autonomy and involvement.

Balancing Both Models in Practice

Effective care often requires blending the strengths of both models:

Combining Medical and Social Approaches

1. Holistic Care: A comprehensive approach addresses both medical and social needs. For example, a child with a learning disability may receive therapy while their school environment is adapted to support them.
2. Collaboration: Encouraging professionals, individuals, and families to work together integrates both perspectives. This ensures all needs—medical, emotional, and social—are considered.
3. Equal Value: Recognising that both models offer valuable insights prevents overreliance on one framework.

Case Study Example

Jade’s Situation: Jade is an adult with a learning disability who struggles with communication.

• Under the medical model, Jade’s care team might focus on speech therapy.
• Using the social model, they look at how her work setting could be adapted, such as introducing communication aids.
• By combining both models, Jade receives therapy while gaining equal employment opportunities in a supportive environment.

The Impact on Policies and Legislation

The influence of these models extends into shaping policies and laws. Key examples include:

• Equality Act 2010: This legislation reflects the social model, requiring organisations to make reasonable adjustments for individuals with disabilities.
• Mental Capacity Act 2005: This law incorporates aspects of both models by ensuring individuals with learning disabilities can make their own decisions wherever possible, with support if needed.
• Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs): These plans combine medical and social approaches, ensuring children with learning disabilities receive support tailored to their individual and environmental needs.

Challenges in Practice

Applying these models in real-world settings is not always straightforward. Some challenges include:

1. Resource Limitations: Limited funding can hinder adaptations or accessible services outlined by the social model.
2. Training Gaps: Professionals may lack training on the importance of removing societal barriers.
3. Cultural Attitudes: Negative societal attitudes about disabilities can reinforce a medical-only perspective within communities.

Final Thoughts

Both the medical and social models provide valuable ways to understand and address learning disabilities in health and social care practice. The medical model focuses on individual needs, offering structured therapies and treatment. The social model highlights societal barriers, driving inclusive practices and empowerment.

By blending these models, care workers can deliver holistic support, meeting medical needs while addressing societal barriers. This ensures individuals with learning disabilities experience dignity, respect, and equal opportunities across their lifespan.