Gender and Disability

Abstract

This chapter is concerned with two distinct but related topics: gender and genetics. First, I consider the differential impact of disability policies according to the sex of disabled persons. I analyse the concerns of disabled women, then those of disabled men, and finally the position of disabled gay and lesbian couples. I argue that, while the impact of some policies may be felt irrespective of gender, there are other experiences and outcomes more specific to a person’s sex. Second, I assess the impact of work in genetics, particularly in the areas of diagnostics and abortion.