(Inter)Dependence, Needs and Care: The Potential for Disability and Feminist Theorists to Develop an Emancipatory Model

Watson, N. , McKie, L., Hughes, B., Hopkins, D. and Gregory, S. (2004) (Inter)Dependence, Needs and Care: The Potential for Disability and Feminist Theorists to Develop an Emancipatory Model. Sociology, 38(2), pp. 331-350.

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Abstract

In this article we examine the tensions between feminist & disability studies perspectives on care. We argue that an emancipatory model of care is one that must address these tensions. In developing this model we consider the notions of (inter)dependence & need across the lifecourse. Drawing on the work of Fraser (1989), we propose that the notion of 'needscape' can be used to construct a 'discourse bridge' that will mediate between the disability studies & feminist perspectives on care. Notions of care & caring have been subject to criticism by feminist & disability theorists. There is a presumption by some that care is an activity to which women are naturally suited & this forms a starting point for the claim associated with the feminist view that care is a source of women's exploitation. For disability activists notions of care are dis-empowering. The person in receipt of care is often assumed to be passive & dependent. This is exemplified in the limited access of disabled people to choices over the nature & form of the social support that they may need.

Item Type:Articles
Keywords:Caregivers, Discourse, Empowerment, Feminism, Feminist Theory, Handicapped, Needs, Social Support, Identity
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Watson, Professor Nicholas
Authors: Watson, N., McKie, L., Hughes, B., Hopkins, D., and Gregory, S.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Social Scientists working in Health and Wellbeing
College of Social Sciences > School of Social and Political Sciences > Sociology Anthropology and Applied Social Sciences
Journal Name:Sociology
ISSN:0038-0385

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