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How do we define disability? What does it mean to have a disability? Well, the language used to conceptualize disability varies across social and cultural contexts.
Working Definitions
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, disability is defined as a "physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities." In order to be protected by the act, a person must have a record of such impairments or be perceived as having such impairments by others (source: ADA).
In order to be eligible for Social Security Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Income (SSI) benefits for disability, a person must have a severe medical condition that "significantly limits one's ability to work," and is likely to last for more than one year, or result in death (source: SSA).
Note that a "severe medical condition" can refer to disability (disability limits one's ability to perform everyday activities), and chronic illness (chronic illness requires much medical attention, and limits one's daily activity). Any chronic illness can become disabling, but not every chronic illness is a disability. Some chronic illnesses produce milder symptoms, which creates an environment where it is easier for people to live life to satisfaction. Some chronic illnesses produce severe symptoms that significantly reduce a person's quality of life, and often lead to disability and death.
Measuring Disability
Definitions of disability that do not fully account for invisible effects can perpetuate stigma. We must ask ourselves, "In what context does assigning a specific level of capability to disability do more harm then good? Is there another way to measure the effects of disability in addition to this?"
The Crip Theory examines "crip time," which is a term often discussed in disability communities. Crip time is used to describe the way in which people with disability move through their lives, and how their experiences shape the concept of reality and time.
Applying elements of this theory may add a bit more clarity to discussions about disability identity.
We'll be sharing a story of a woman coming to terms with her disability next week. Hopefully, her story puts some of the things we've discussed into perspective.
In the meantime . . .
Want to explore the meaning of disability and Crip Theory? Check these out:
Perspectives on the Meaning of “Disability”
Robert McRuer on Crip Theory
Crip Times: Disability, Globalization, and Resistance – Robert McRuer
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