Perception of the Disabled "Other" in the Social Context of Iran from the Viewpoint of Sociologists

The present study aims to perceive the disabled’s “other” in the social context of Iran. The research method was qualitative and of the thematic analysis type and the research field was sociology professors of Tehran universities. Using purposive sampling and achieving data saturation, 10 people were selected as the sample. The data collection tool was a semi-structured interview. To determine the reliability of the interviews, strategies such as review by participants and an observer referee were used. Data analysis was performed based on thematic analysis steps. The results were extracted in three main categories, including people with autism, mentally disabled and physically-kinetically disabled and several sub-categories. In general, the results showed that the disabled are less included in the policy-making and planning system than other groups and minorities in society, and their problems are less identified. Therefore, the community decision-making system needs policies and programs for the active presence and participation of the disabled.