Fulfilling the goals of the ADA-broadening its applicability and strengthening its enforcement: an interdisciplinary analysis
Presentation Type
Abstract
Faculty Advisor
Thomas Loikith
Access Type
Event
Start Date
25-4-2025 12:00 PM
End Date
25-4-2025 1:00 PM
Description
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in everyday activities. However, the ADA does not cover all aspects of life as a person with disabilities. It does not address social barriers that hinder the ability of people with disabilities to fully participate in society. These barriers involve physical inaccessibility, discrimination, limited education, and social inclusion. Social inequities perpetuate barriers to complete accessibility. Sporadic enforcement, inadequate funding, and gaps in coverage all limit the benefits of the ADA. What can and should be done to improve the impact of the ADA on the lives of persons with disabilities? This is a complex problem requiring interdisciplinary research and analysis to achieve a more comprehensive understanding. I used qualitative research methodology, specifically textual analysis. I researched relevant sources from the disciplines of law and sociology to identify conflicting insights. I then sought common ground between those insights, and through integration I arrived at a more comprehensive understanding of the problem. That allows me to suggest resolutions to the problem. My research is not yet complete, but I conclude that the ADA can be improved by filling gaps in its coverage, increased funding and stricter enforcement, and programs to improve public awareness of the rights of people with disabilities. My research also opens avenues for additional research to further understand the strengths and weaknesses of the ADA and how it can continue to be improved to achieve a better and more stable environment for all Americans with disabilities.
Fulfilling the goals of the ADA-broadening its applicability and strengthening its enforcement: an interdisciplinary analysis
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in everyday activities. However, the ADA does not cover all aspects of life as a person with disabilities. It does not address social barriers that hinder the ability of people with disabilities to fully participate in society. These barriers involve physical inaccessibility, discrimination, limited education, and social inclusion. Social inequities perpetuate barriers to complete accessibility. Sporadic enforcement, inadequate funding, and gaps in coverage all limit the benefits of the ADA. What can and should be done to improve the impact of the ADA on the lives of persons with disabilities? This is a complex problem requiring interdisciplinary research and analysis to achieve a more comprehensive understanding. I used qualitative research methodology, specifically textual analysis. I researched relevant sources from the disciplines of law and sociology to identify conflicting insights. I then sought common ground between those insights, and through integration I arrived at a more comprehensive understanding of the problem. That allows me to suggest resolutions to the problem. My research is not yet complete, but I conclude that the ADA can be improved by filling gaps in its coverage, increased funding and stricter enforcement, and programs to improve public awareness of the rights of people with disabilities. My research also opens avenues for additional research to further understand the strengths and weaknesses of the ADA and how it can continue to be improved to achieve a better and more stable environment for all Americans with disabilities.
Comments
Poster presentation at the 2025 Student Research Symposium.