The Nordic model of disability studies has consistently emphasized the importance of embedding affected individuals within the everyday social context to ensure that they can be fully functioning members of society. Thus, even though people with disability require adequate and consistent treatment, they should not be sheltered, nor should they be excluded from participation if they cause no harm to others (Nordic Co-operation). Peter Næss ‘ film Elling (2001) perfectly illustrates how the Nordic model is implemented in life as its protagonist, diagnosed with generalized anxiety, is given the opportunity to live independently, which allows him to learn a lot about himself and uncover hidden talents.
According to the definition provided by Goodley, the Nordic disability concept lies in: “belonging and involvement in a disability community, disability pride, promotion of empowering professionals, and self-advocacy-informed services” (17). In the movie, Elling is released from a mental health institution together with his friend, Kjell, under a supervision program that allowed them to live independently. Their social worker encouraged them to become regular citizens even though they had to deal with severe anxiety and other mental health issues. As they navigated the world, Kjell fell in love while Elling discovered that he could write some good poetry. Elling began hiding his hand-written poetry notes behind sauerkraut packages at the supermarket, and a local newspaper soon reported about him as “the Sauerkraut Poet.” The recognition of Elling as a talented person, regardless of his disability, sums up the Nordic disability concept because it shows that being a part of society encourages personal growth and development. Scholars adhering to this principle view disability as relative, which is why there is no specific approach for all people.
Works Cited
Goodley, Dan. Disability Studies: An Interdisciplinary Introduction. 2nd ed., Sage Publications Ltd, 2016.
Nordic Co-operation. “Nordic Co-operation on Disability.” Norden, 2022. Web.