In the field of disability research the current debate centres on the ‘sodal model of disability’. The sodal model of disability defines disability as the sodal oppression experienced by people with physical and intellectual impairments. The main theme summarised in this article is that, among the many factors affecting disabilities, probably the most important are the beliefs and attitudes toward disabled persons. Numerous studies show that such beliefs and attitudes are often negative and based on stereotypes. These stereotyped beliefs can be used to justify discrimination or even violence against people with disability. It is contended that attitudes develop and change in the sodal environment. There is a need of modifying the sodal environment, and sodal policy can play an important role in transforming negative attitudes in the positive direction.