The Social Psychology of Disability (Academy of Rehabilitation Psychology Series)

The Social Psychology of Disability (Academy of Rehabilitation Psychology Series)

This is the first book to systematically review, update, organize, and critique the literature on the social psychology of disability in 30 years. The book gives pride of place to classic as well as contemporary concepts from the social psychology of disability and rehabilitation psychology that researchers and clinicians can use or adapt for their professional venues. The book's overarching message is an important one: The experience of most people with disabilities is not what nondisabled persons anticipate--contrary to the latter's beliefs and expectations, the former can lead full and normal lives. Thus, The Social Psychology of Disability is designed to counter stereotypical or biased perspectives aimed at an often overlooked minority group. The primary audience for the book is rehabilitation researchers and clinicians in psychology and allied fields (e.g., social work, nursing). A secondary audience includes policy makers and graduate students in rehabilitation and clinical psychology, as well as interested undergraduates. "A social psychologist in the holistic tradition of Beatrice Wright, Dunn explores the cultural, social, and interpersonal context within which an individual with a disability operates. He highlights the various facets of the multiple factors that either enable the person to accept the impairment-celebrate its uniqueness, focus on his or her aspirations, and thrive-or succumb to the prevailing negative stereotypical expectation by society that a person is defined by a disability. The author does a masterful job of illustrating the belief systems that underlie the polar models of disability. The chapter topics are well thought out, and the narrative flows easily, inviting readers to think through the implications by answering review questions at the conclusion of each chapter. Highly recommended." --D. J. Winchester, CHOICE "Dunn does an excellent job of presenting a different view of disability through his work. It is a relatable and refreshing piece of academic work that is actually interesting and even at times fun to read, and it would serve as an excellent reference and reminder for all professionals." -- PsycCRITIQUES This book reviews classic and current scholarship on the experience of disability, emphasizing interactions between persons with disabilities (PWD) and non-disabled people. Dana S. Dunn is Professor of Psychology and Assistant Dean for Special Projects at Moravian College. A social psychologist by training, his scholarship examines teaching, learning, and liberal education as well as the social psychology of disability. He received the Charles L. Brewer Award for Distinguished Teaching of Psychology from the American Psychological Foundation in 2013.