Disability - GCSE Sociology Definition

Reviewed by: Raj Bonsor

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In GCSE Sociology, 'disability' refers to a physical or mental condition that significantly limits a person's ability to perform everyday activities or interact with their surroundings. This can include challenges related to mobility, communication, learning, or self-care.

Disabilities can be visible, such as those requiring the use of a wheelchair, or invisible, such as mental health conditions or learning difficulties.

Understanding disability is important in sociology because it helps explain how societal structures, attitudes, and policies can either support or hinder individuals with disabilities. Additionally, it highlights the importance of advocating for equality, inclusion, and accessibility to ensure that everyone can participate fully in society.

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Raj Bonsor

Reviewer: Raj Bonsor

Expertise: Psychology & Sociology Content Creator

Raj joined Save My Exams in 2024 as a Senior Content Creator for Psychology & Sociology. Prior to this, she spent fifteen years in the classroom, teaching hundreds of GCSE and A Level students. She has experience as Subject Leader for Psychology and Sociology, and her favourite topics to teach are research methods (especially inferential statistics!) and attachment. She has also successfully taught a number of Level 3 subjects, including criminology, health & social care, and citizenship.

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