Deviating from the Norm: A Sceptical Interrogation of the Classificatory Practices of the ICF

Abstract

The World Health Organisation's systems for classifying disability have been embraced, largely uncritically, by occupational therapists. In contrast, disability theorists critique the idea of normality against which judgements of deviance are made, challenge the privilege to make such judgements and contest the belief that the outcome of classification is necessarily benign or benevolent. Because systems for classifying impairments have been used to justify human rights' abuses, they cannot be used uncritically. Accordingly, this opinion piece draws on the work of disability theorists to undertake a sceptical interrogation of the classificatory practices of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF).