Social representation, self-identity and anticipated guilt in universal access: A constructivist approach to (non-)visible disabilities

Journal article

Conventional transportation research often focuses on physical barriers, sidelining the social and psychological challenges faced by individuals with (non-)visible disabilities. This narrow focus neglects the broader societal impact on those with non-visible disabilities or varying degrees of mobility restrictions. This study, rooted in the social constructivist perspective, investigates how the social perception of universal access, self-identity regarding disabilities, physical impairment and feelings of guilt influence walking route preferences in Hong Kong, a transit-centric city. Using a mixed-methods approach, including a stated-reference experiment with 305 participants, structural equation modelling–hybrid discrete choice model and semi-structured interviews with 13 participants, we reveal that walking route choices are influenced by anticipated guilt, familiarity, travel habits, and physical impairment. Perceptions of mobility-aid facilities as convenient yet exclusive for individuals with disabilities significantly impact route selection, particularly among females, due to cultural norms. Guilt intensifies when they are perceived as inadequate, discouraging use, while physical impairment informs self-identity as disabled without fully aligning with the medical model of disability. Interview insights highlight a trade-off between physical needs and social discomfort, supporting a discrete choice model of decision-making. These findings highlight the interplay of social representation, guilt and identity, calling on policymakers and urban designers to adopt a more empathetic, inclusive approach to urban accessibility.

Authors: Chan, H; Tsoi, KH; Chen, A

• Publication status: Published
• Peer review status: Peer reviewed
• Publisher: SAGE Publications
• Journal: Urban Studies
• Volume: 63
• Issue: 7
• Pages: 1595-1619
• Article number: 00420980251342717
• Publication date: 2025-06-25
• Acceptance date: 2025-04-01
• DOI: 10.1177/00420980251342717
• EISSN: 1360-063X
• ISSN: 0042-0980
• Language: English
• Keywords: 社会建构; 混合方法; mixed-methods; universal design; social construct; 路线选择; 通用设计; route choice; 隐性残疾; non-visible disabilities