Civil rights laws are primarily guided by which theoretical model of disability?

The social model of disability is the correct answer because it fundamentally shifts the perspective on disability from one of personal deficit to one of societal barriers. This model emphasizes that disability is not an inherent trait of an individual but is instead the result of the interaction between people with impairments and a society that does not accommodate their needs. Therefore, civil rights laws aim to remove these barriers and promote equal opportunities, underscoring the importance of accessibility and inclusion in various aspects of life.

This model informs civil rights legislation by advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities and ensuring that they have the same rights and freedoms as everyone else. By focusing on societal change rather than individual impairment, the social model aligns closely with the goals of civil rights advocacy, which seeks to dismantle systemic obstacles and promote justice and equality.

In contrast, the charity/tragedy model focuses on the perception of disability as a disadvantage that evokes pity, which doesn't necessarily drive advocacy for rights and equality. The medical model, while useful in understanding the clinical aspects of disabilities, tends to pathologize disability rather than advocate for social change. The legal model, while relevant to the enforcement of rights, is not a theoretical framework for understanding disability itself but rather a framework for applying laws related to civil rights