In practice, a social model of disability referencing a relational worldview would treat an autistic child quite differently than we currently do. The social model would explore a child’s needs in a way that builds trust. Sure, an evaluation will be necessary, but it would be completed in a way that builds trust with the child. Rather than using deficit-based language that makes children feel bad (yes they hear it, and yes they feel bad), evaluators would use affirming, strengths-based language while identifying needed support.
