Introduction In this assignment, I aim to provide the reader with an overview of two important models of disability: the medical model and the social model. More specifically, I intend to outline the differences between these models, particularly their theory and practice. First, I will note the definition of what a disability model is and indicate its relevance to disability studies. I will also briefly examine the origins of both the medical and social models, but primarily outlining the contributions of their respective theoretical contents and influence in society. Overall, the main aim of the task is to be achieved by providing an overall picture of the social model and medical disability models, which can be used to highlight differences in theoretical foundations and practical methods. This will serve the reader with an overview of both models of disability, which recognizes the differences in how disability can be defined and addressed in society. the differences between medical and social models of disability, providing details on their respective theory and practice. Impairment, disability and use of disability models. It can be assumed that a clear definition of the term disability has never been universally agreed upon by any lay person. or an in-depth study. This may be due to disability related to different views; ultimately, the person who experiences the impairment and the person who does not experience it. Another factor may be the norms present in various cultures around the world (Thomas, 2002). There is also a conflicting discussion about the contextual nature of impairment, which is vital to denoting disability. Usually, when talking about dysfunction of an organ or body appendage, examples of impairment would be...... half of the article......dine, M. & Dukelow, F. 2009. Irish Social Policy: A Critical Introduction. Dublin: Gill & MacmillanHammell, K. 2006. Perspectives on disability and rehabilitation: competing hypotheses; Challenging practice. Philadelphia: Churchill Livingstone McClaren, N. 1998. 'A Critical Review of the Biopsychosocial Model', Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, Vol 32, No. 1: pp. 86 - 92Oliver, M. 1990. The Politics of Disablement. London: The MacMillan Press LtdOliver, M. 1996. Understanding disability: from theory to practice. Hampshire: PalgraveRoyal Association for Disability Rights (RADAR). 2010. Accessed from http://www.radar.org.uk/radarwebsite on 6 November 2010Thomas, C. (2002). “Disability Theory: Key Ideas, Issues and Thinkers,” in: Barnes, C., Barton, L. & Oliver, M. Disability Studies Today. Cambridge: Polity Press. page: 38 - 57