disability as a social construct

Disability as a social construct means that society plays a significant role in shaping how we experience and define disability. It's not just about a person’s physical or mental condition, but also about how environmental barriers, attitudes, and policies can limit their participation. For example, a person in a wheelchair is only considered disabled if buildings lack ramps or accessible features. In this view, disability arises from the mismatch between individuals and their surroundings, emphasizing that societal change—like improving accessibility—can reduce barriers and foster inclusion.