Introduction: Disability Policy as an Emerging Field of Mainstream Public Policy Research and Pedagogy

Abstract

The purpose of this two‐part symposium of the Policy Studies Journal is to broaden theconcept of disability policy from one that has relevance onlyforpeople interested in that substantive area to that of a major field of social policy having ramifications for the study and teaching of public policy broadly construed. The goal is for experiences in disability policy to be regarded in the same way that experiences in Other substantive areas, such as environmental policy, other social services, and civil rights, illustrate broader themes in areas such as public management, policy analysis, or ethics.

Policy Development for Advocates

“…S cholars in the field of disability studies decry the lack of coherence in public policies for assisting individuals with disabilities and call for broadly based solutions (Watson, 1993). Most focus on the substance of particular policies by identifying shortcomings in comparison to current literature on best practices and standards for the field and by suggesting alternatives (Stowe & Turnbull, 2001).…”

“…Duplication and confusion abound. (Berkowitz, 1987, p. 1) Calls for cross-disciplinary dialogue and for greater coherence in disability policies across the fields of disability studies, rehabilitation, and public policy (Schriner, 1995;Watson, 1993) have produced only limited understanding of disability policy making for students and practitioners. Instead, most scholars with an interest in public policy for people with disabilities focus on what should be done but give scant consideration to how the dynamics of the policy making process constrain substantive options.…”