When discussing Deafness, it’s important to recognize that different perspectives shape how society views and interacts with Deaf individuals. Two key frameworks are the medical model and the social model of Deafness. These models influence policies, attitudes, and the experiences of Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in various aspects of life. Understanding them helps promote inclusivity and respect for Deaf identity.
The medical model views Deafness as a physical condition that needs to be “fixed” or “treated.” It focuses on hearing loss as a disability that limits a person’s abilities and seeks ways to restore hearing, such as:
This perspective often emphasizes integration into the hearing world through technology and spoken language. While these tools can be helpful, the medical model sometimes overlooks the cultural and linguistic identity of the Deaf community, framing Deafness solely as a deficit rather than a natural variation of human diversity.
The social model shifts the focus from the individual to society, recognizing that barriers—rather than Deafness itself—create challenges for Deaf individuals. According to this model, the real issue is lack of accessibility and acceptance, rather than a person’s hearing ability. Examples of social barriers include:
The social model promotes Deaf culture and American Sign Language (ASL) as a rich, visual language that connects the Deaf community. It advocates for policies that remove obstacles and create inclusive environments where Deaf people can thrive without needing to conform to hearing norms.
Understanding these models helps shape how we approach Deafness in education, healthcare, and everyday interactions. While medical advancements can benefit those who choose them, the social model emphasizes acceptance, accessibility, and Deaf identity rather than “fixing” Deafness.
A more inclusive world acknowledges both perspectives but prioritizes empowering Deaf individuals to choose how they want to communicate and engage with society. By embracing the social model, we shift the conversation from “curing” Deafness to respecting and supporting Deaf people in all aspects of life.