The nature vs. nurture debate continues to command attention as we seek to understand the nature of disability and the effect, if any, of various interventions. The opposing opinions in this debate are exemplified by Goddard and Wolfensberger. (a) Briefly describe each of their points of view on disability and disability services. (b) Present and defend your position on this debate

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Answer:
• Goddard was convinced from his experience at Vineland Training School and his flawed research on the Kallikak family that intellectual disabilities were entirely a inherited conditions and that training could never remediate the weaknesses. Preventing reproduction was his answer.
• Wolfensberger was convinced that providing services in a normalized environment was critical; the environment itself was the "teacher," and placement in a "normalized" environment was of therapeutic value, as well as being morally and ethically appropriate.

Answers on the position statement part of the question will vary. It is expected that students will defend whatever position they take, but it is most likely that their answers will convey a sense of both nature and nurture being of importance. Neither nature nor nurture is the whole story in and of itself.