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The Definition Dilemma: How Definitions of Disability Shape Statistics on Social Participation

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  • Judith Baart

    (Care Ethics, Disability Studies in Nederland, University of Humanistic Studies, 3512 HD Utrecht, The Netherlands)

  • Willem Elbers

    (Gender & Diversity Studies, Radboud University, 6525 XZ Nijmegen, The Netherlands)

  • Alice Schippers

    (Care Ethics, Disability Studies in Nederland, University of Humanistic Studies, 3512 HD Utrecht, The Netherlands)

  • Sarah Polack

    (International Centre for Evidence in Disability, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK)

Abstract

To monitor progress in including persons with disabilities, including in interventions which can improve their health and quality of life, it is crucial to collect data on their participation. However, there are many different ways of defining disability and thus categorising individuals as disabled/not disabled, which may impact measures of participation. This study aims to assess the relationship between three different measures of disability and the level of participation of persons with disabilities. We analysed data from a population-based survey of disability amongst Syrian refugees in Istanbul, which collected data on disability using the Washington Group enhanced set of disability questions as well a two-question set asking about perceived activity limitations due to disability. The prevalence of disability ranged from 13.5 to 22.4% depending on the measure used. The group of people that are categorised as disabled also differs, indicating who is being seen as disabled changes when a different measure is used. Levels of participation, with regards to paid work, education and being partnered, also varied by measure, for example, being in paid work ranged from 26% to 38%. These findings underscore the importance of carefully selecting and clearly defining disability measures in studies, (health) interventions and policy contexts.

Suggested Citation

  • Judith Baart & Willem Elbers & Alice Schippers & Sarah Polack, 2025. "The Definition Dilemma: How Definitions of Disability Shape Statistics on Social Participation," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 22(4), pages 1-11, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:22:y:2025:i:4:p:603-:d:1632912
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Nora Groce & Maria Kett & Raymond Lang & Jean-Francois Trani, 2011. "Disability and Poverty: the need for a more nuanced understanding of implications for development policy and practice," Third World Quarterly, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 32(8), pages 1493-1513.
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