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# 2.4 Invisible disabilities

Invisible disabilities, unlike visible ones, are not immediately apparent. They include conditions like chronic pain, fatigue, cognitive variations, sleep disorders, and mental health issues. These individuals often face scepticism or judgment due to the invisible nature of their challenges, complicating efforts to foster inclusive environments.

Dyslexia, as a neurological condition, is one such invisible disability. Dyslexic people may struggle with routine activities like reading a menu at a restaurant or interpreting a graph during a business meeting, and their neurological differences can lead to misperceptions of laziness or unintelligence. These misconceptions can significantly impact their experiences in traditional educational settings, where instruction is primarily delivered through reading and writing.

## Activity 3 Considering the two models

Allow about 15 minutes

Investigate the interplay between dyslexia (invisible disability) and the two leading models of disability. Create two specific scenarios involving the same individual with dyslexia.

In the first scenario, place that individual in an environment that reflects the medical model of disability and perceives the individual’s dyslexia as a problem that needs fixing.

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In the second scenario, place them in a setting that embodies the social model, where dyslexia is not seen as the individual’s problem and the environment itself adapts to accommodate everyone’s unique way of learning and processing information.

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Now, match these two scenarios to the corresponding model of disability.

## Scenario 1

Esther, who has dyslexia, is a student in a traditional school where the curriculum is rigid and standardised. The school views dyslexia as a problem that resides within Esther. She struggles with reading and writing tasks. The school responds by providing Esther with extra tutoring and remedial classes, aiming to ‘fix’ her dyslexia. Esther is often pulled out of regular classes for these sessions, making her feel different from her peers.

## Scenario 2

Adebayo works in a place where dyslexia is not seen as a problem within the person, but rather as a difference that the workplace should accommodate. The workplace uses inclusive strategies that cater to diverse styles. For instance, they provide audiobooks and use visual aids to complement text-based materials, allowing Adebayo to learn and progress in a way that suits him best. They also provide assistive technology like text-to-speech software to help Adebayo with reading and writing tasks. In this setting, Adebayo is not singled out for extra support.

Medical model

Scenario 1

Social model

Scenario 2

Using the following two lists, match each numbered item with the correct letter.

1. Medical model

2. Social model

1. 1

   Scenario 1

2. 2

   Scenario 2

The correct answers are:

- 1 =
- 2 =

### Discussion

Scenario 1 is an example of the medical model of disability. The focus is on what Esther can’t do, rather than on her strengths or interests. This approach can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem for Esther.

Scenario 2 is an example of the social model of disability. This approach fosters a sense of belonging and self-confidence in Adebayo, allowing him to thrive academically and socially.

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