A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF THE DISABILITY PARADOX: RECONCEPTUALISING WELL-BEING AND HUMAN FLOURISHING

Abstract

This paper critically analyses the disability paradox, a phenomenon in which many individuals with serious or long-term disabilities report high levels of quality of life, contrary to external assumptions that disability inevitably diminishes well-being. The study adopts a qualitative, desk-based methodology, drawing on published literature, conceptual analysis, and critical interpretations within disability studies, psychology, and philosophy. Through a review of foundational works and engagement with disability theories, the analysis explores the empirical evidence, theoretical explanations, and socio-cultural implications of the paradox. Findings indicate that the disability paradox is best explained by three interrelated mechanisms: adaptation and response shift, psychosocial resources such as mastery and resilience, and social and environmental factors that reduce barriers. It also emerges that the paradox is neither universal nor uniform: it varies across individuals, cultures, genders, and dimensions of subjective well-being. Conceptually, the paradox challenges medicalised assumptions of disability as deficit and supports a relational or social model of disability. The paper recommends that future research adopt qualitative, longitudinal, and intersectional approaches to better capture the lived experiences of disabled people. For practice and policy, it advocates for a capabilities approach, focused on creating enabling environments, dismantling ableist barriers, and affirming diverse ways of living. It also cautions against framing disability and well-being as paradoxical, urging instead that flourishing in disability be seen as legitimate and expected where inclusion, dignity, and solidarity are realised.