This study presents theoretical and practical perspectives on how society intervenes in the lives of people with disabilities, demonstrating ways in which such interventions can be ineffective and often counter-productive. The contributors to this volume seek to illustrate how, with thought and planning - and in some cases a shift of emphasis or attitude - resources for "disabled" individuals could be used more effectively. Issues covered include: considerations of specific types of disability; an examination of care and counselling; discussions of training, legislation and management; the impact of the caring professions on those with disabilities; and future developments in disability services. This work is a course reader for the Open University course K255, The Disabling Society.