Published Works and Academic Articles

“Canadian Disability Policy: Still a Hit-and-Miss Affair,”

Canadian Journal of Sociology, 29, 1, p. 59-82, 2004
Michael J. Prince

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Abstract

When the Canadian record on disability policy-making is reviewed a déjà vu discourse is clearly evident. Assessing disability policy reform over recent decades evokes a strong sense that we have been here before in terms of the problems identified and the promises made. From interviews with disability community leaders and documentary analysis, five explanations for this frustrating pace of reform over the last 25 years are examined.

Understanding Disability Policies

(MacMillan, 1999)
Robert F. Drake

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Abstract

This book provides a comprehensive analysis of the development and consequences of disability policies, contrasting policies grounded in medical definitions of disability with a 'social model' of disability supported by disability rights campaigners in their pursuit of anti-discrimination legislation. British policies are set in comparative context, and the impacts of policy on disabled people according to their class, gender, age and ethnicity are explored.

Five Models for Understanding how people think about disability and disability policy

“Five Models for Understanding How Professionals, Policy Leaders, Researchers, Families, and Individuals with Disabilities Think About the Meaning of and About Societal and Policy Responses to Disability,”
(Journal of Disability Policy Studies, 12, 3, 198-205: 2001)
Turnbull, H.R. and Stowe, M.J.

Abstract

This article describes a meta-cognition approach to thinking about disability and about societal and policy responses to disability. It connects core concepts and taxonomies to five discipline-based models of how people think about disability and disability policy, showing how the professions that are the most salient in disability policy-processes reflect societal responses to disability and thereby affect policy.

These models, while useful by themselves to stimulate thought on disability issues from multiple perspectives, are best used in concert with core concepts of disability and the disability matrix.

Five Models:

• The Model of Human Capacity Studies
• The Model of Public Studies
• The Model of Cultural Studies
• The Model of Ethical and Philosophical Studies
• The Model of Technology Studies

Disability Policy in Canada: An Overview

(Journal of Disability Policy Studies, 13, 4, p. 203-209: 2003)
Jongbloed, L.

Abstract

Over the last century there has been a shift from conceptualizing disability as a challenge to law and order, to viewing disability as a medical and/or economic deficit and then as a sociopolitical issue. In Canada, these changing conceptualizations of disability have been reflected in the development of disability policies, which form part of general Canadian social policies. Each model of disability captures a particular aspect of disability and focuses on particular goals, and each depicts a different account of what society owes people with disabilities. However, the lack of linkages between the models and their conceptual bases means that no one model can be used to guide disability policy development. Decision making about the goals of disability policy and the rights of people with disabilities requires the development of a normative foundation.

Disability Policy in Sweden:
Policies Concerning Assistive Technology and Home modification Services

(Journal of Disability Policy Studies, 14, 3, p. 130-135: 2003)
Lilja, M., Mansson, I., Jahlenius, L., Sacco-Peterson, M.

Abstract

This article describes policy concerning provision of services to persons with disabilities in Sweden. The Swedish welfare system provides general support for society as a whole, which is supplemented by specific support for persons with special needs. This philosophy has guided the way Sweden has built public service systems. The authors describe the range of accessible services for persons with disabilities, including the system of delivery for assistive technology and housing modifications. Strengths and weaknesses in Swedish policy related to decentralization, responsibility, equality, and cost are also discussed.

Governing in an Integrated Fashion: Lessons from the Disability Domain,

(CPRN, Discussion Paper, F/14: 2001)
Prince, M.J.

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Abstract

This discussion paper is the second of a two-phase research project, both of which are extensions of the analysis carried out in the Best Policy Mix for Canada's Children research program. It derives from the Best Mix examination of governance and accountability issues in children's policy to describe and analyze the governance regime affecting Canadian children with disabilities and their families. It identifies the governance and accountability structures that will allow an agenda of childhood development, family support, and social inclusion for children with disabilities to move forward in Canada. The ultimate intent is to encourage changes on multiple fronts that will improve governing practices such that when we say "all children" we truly mean all children.

20 Years of Litigating for Disability Equality Rights: Has it Made a Difference?

An Assessment by the Council of Canadians with Disabilities
(Council of Canadians with Disabilities, 2004)
Peters, Yvonne

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Abstract

Over 20 years have passed since people with disabilities won the right to be recognized by Canada's Constitution. Securing Constitutional recognition was only the first step of affirming the equality rights of people with disabilities, since that time, people with disabilities have stepped through the courthouse door and insisted that Canada's judicial system pay attention to their rights and irradicate discrimination from Canadian laws and institutions. This paper traces the evolution of disability equality rights; from demanding recognition and inclusion in human rights law, to becoming experienced litigators for a substantive vision of equality in Canada.