Depictions of Social Security Disability in Film

by Nancy Fernandez

Disability is a topic that is not often represented accurately or respectfully in popular culture. This is especially true when it comes to the depiction of social security disability in film. While some movies do a great job of portraying the challenges and realities of disability and the social security system, many fall short in their representation. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most common depictions of social security disability in film and what they get right (and wrong).

What we mean by social security disability?

One of the most common depictions of social security disability in film is that of the "disability faker." This is a character who is portrayed as feigning or exaggerating their disability in order to collect social security benefits. While there have been cases of individuals committing fraud in the social security system, this portrayal is often over-exaggerated and perpetuates harmful stereotypes about people with disabilities. In reality, the vast majority of individuals who receive social security disability benefits are legitimate recipients who are unable to work due to a serious medical condition.

Another common depiction of social security disability in film is that of the "miraculous cure." This is a character who is depicted as being unable to work due to a disability, but then suddenly experiences a miraculous cure that allows them to return to work. While it's certainly possible for some individuals to recover from a medical condition and return to work, this portrayal can be harmful because it implies that disability is something that can be easily overcome or "cured." In reality, many individuals with disabilities will never be able to return to work due to the severity of their medical condition.

1. “The Pursuit of Happyness”

One movie that does a good job of portraying the challenges of social security disability is "The Pursuit of Happyness." The film follows a single father (played by Will Smith) who is trying to make ends meet while also caring for his young son. The father is eventually forced to apply for social security disability benefits after he is unable to secure steady employment due to his lack of a college education and criminal record. The movie does a great job of showing the struggles that many individuals with disabilities face, including the stigma and discrimination they often encounter when trying to find work.

2. “I, Tonya”

Another movie that portrays social security disability accurately is "I, Tonya." The movie is based on the true story of Tonya Harding, a former figure skater who was banned from the sport after her ex-husband and bodyguard hired someone to attack her rival, Nancy Kerrigan. The movie portrays Harding as a person with a disability due to her difficult upbringing and abusive relationships. The film shows how difficult it can be for individuals with disabilities to break out of the cycle of poverty and abuse, and how social security disability benefits can provide a lifeline for those who are unable to work.

Conclusion

In conclusion, depictions of social security disability in film can be hit or miss. While some movies accurately portray the challenges and realities of disability and the social security system, others perpetuate harmful stereotypes and myths. It's important for filmmakers to do their research and consult with individuals with disabilities when creating characters and storylines that involve social security disability. By doing so, they can create more nuanced and accurate portrayals that help to dispel myths and reduce stigma around disability.