Which of the following describes the focus of the Social Model of disability?

The focus of the Social Model of disability centers on the recognition of societal barriers to access. This model shifts the perspective from viewing disability solely as a medical issue related to an individual's impairments to seeing it as a complex interplay of an individual's condition and the societal environment that can either enable or disable them. The Social Model argues that many issues faced by individuals with disabilities arise not from their impairments themselves, but from the societal structures and attitudes that limit their participation in various areas of life.

By emphasizing the role of societal barriers—such as inaccessible buildings, lack of wheelchair ramps, or discriminatory attitudes—the Social Model advocates for changes in policy, infrastructure, and social perceptions to promote inclusivity and equal opportunities for people with disabilities. This perspective encourages a proactive approach to disability, suggesting that creating an accommodating environment can empower individuals and reduce the limitations they face.

Other options would not adequately capture the essence of the Social Model. For instance, focusing on individual medical treatment overlooks the larger societal context, while promoting institutional support might imply a reliance on segregated services instead of advocating for broad social change. Encouraging genetic modification possibilities shifts the conversation towards a biomedical perspective that the Social Model moves away from, as it suggests altering individuals rather than addressing societal barriers.