The Social Psychology of Disability

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. Overall, this is an excellent text. Dr. Dunn introduces a complex subject with great social impact in a manner that is accessible to all readers... The text is not only an informative introduction to the social psychology of disability, but also serves as a call into action for its readers. Sara Bender and Karlie Hill, Psychology Learning & Teaching, Vol. 14 (3)Preface ; Chapter 1 - Overview: The Social Psychology of Disability ; Chapter 2 - Fundamental Psychosocial Concepts for Understanding Disability ; Chapter 3 - Challenges: Stigma, Stereotyping, and Disability ; Chapter 4 - Attitudes Toward People with Disabilities ; Chapter 5 - Coping with and Adjusting to Disability ; Chapter 6 - Towards an Understanding of Disability Identity ; Chapter 7 - A Positive Psychology of Disability and Rehabilitation ; Chapter 8 - The Ecology of Disability ; References ; Index