Chapter 2 Notes: Philosophy, Social Policy and Rehabilitation

We all have a personal philosophy (beliefs and values) and it shapes how we view life.
Social philosophy: society’s policies (laws/regulations) reflect collective beliefs.
Philosophy can be viewed personally or societally; broader view affects how society treats its citizens.
Philosophy influences which programs are funded (e.g., vocational rehabilitation and Social Security).

Philosophy = assumptions/beliefs about life, humans, and existence; shapes how we relate to others and ourselves.
Greek philosophy: mind–body–spiritual approach; holistic view of human nature.
Renaissance/Reformation: humanistic, secular emphasis; humans central.
Eugenics/Darwinism: “survival of the fittest”; historically used to justify unequal treatment.
Today: belief that all people with disabilities have potential for change and civil rights.

U.S. operates under a market economy: freedom to choose among competing products/services.
Two major political orientations:
- Conservatism: smaller government, less intrusion
- Liberalism: more government intervention to promote equality
Rehabilitation aims to “even the playing field” for people with disabilities.

Roots in the medical model: disability seen as result of injury, disease, or abnormal development.
Physiatrists: medical doctors specializing in rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation counseling: roots in psychology and counseling.
Rehabilitation also educational: teaching people to adjust to and cope with disability.
Guiding principles (mentioned): independence and self-sufficiency, work, physical beauty.
Core aim: PWD should be integrated into least restrictive environments.

Equality of opportunity: all people are equal regardless of race, sex, disability, etc.
Holistic approach: view the person as a whole, not in fragments.
Uniqueness of each individual: avoid stereotypes; develop individualized rehabilitation plans.

Shift from an individual-focused to an ecological approach: change the person and remove environmental barriers.
Move from medical models toward moral and minority models.
Emphasis on integrated living and employment.

People with disabilities should be able to live, work, shop, and play where they choose within the community.
The community has a responsibility to be accessible to enable community living.
Equal access to social, economic, and political opportunities should be expected, comparable to rights of ethnic minorities.
Disability is not necessarily illness; a person with a disability may become ill, but disability is not always an illness.
People with disabilities do not seek pity.

It is crucial to examine our own philosophies and beliefs in rehabilitation practice.
If you believe work is healthy and worth encouraging, you are more optimistic and enthusiastic when helping people with disabilities seek employment.