What is Social Role Valorisation (SRV)?

Social Role Valorisation (SRV) is a powerful and practical theory developed by Dr. Wolf Wolfensberger that aims to improve the lives of people who are devalued or marginalised in society—such as people with disability, mental health challenges, the elderly, people experiencing poverty, or those from minority backgrounds.

At its core, SRV is based on the understanding that society assigns different values to different roles, and unfortunately, many people are placed in—or forced into—roles that are seen as negative, dependent, or burdensome. These perceptions often lead to people being excluded, overlooked, or treated with less respect. SRV challenges this by promoting the development and support of valued social roles for all people, especially those at risk of being devalued.

What Are Valued Social Roles?

Valued social roles are positions in society that carry positive meaning, status, and respect. These roles help shape how a person is seen by others—and how they see themselves. Common examples include roles such as:

  • Student

  • Employee

  • Neighbour

  • Team member

  • Volunteer

  • Friend

  • Parent

  • Artist or creator

  • Homeowner or tenant

When people hold roles that are respected by society, they are more likely to be treated well, offered opportunities, and included in community life. They are seen as contributors, rather than as people in need of help or pity. These roles also provide individuals with structure, purpose, identity, and a sense of belonging.

Why Is SRV Important?

SRV helps us recognise how society often unintentionally (or intentionally) pushes certain groups to the margins. It shows that one of the most effective ways to counteract exclusion and disadvantage is to support people into roles that are:

  • Recognised and respected by others

  • Linked to competence, independence, and contribution

  • Culturally valued and socially typical

For example, a person with disability might be more likely to be seen positively when they are introduced as an employee at the local café or as a passionate sports team member, rather than being labelled only by their disability or as someone who "needs help."

SRV also invites service providers, families, and communities to reflect on their attitudes and practices. Are we helping people access valued roles? Or are we unintentionally reinforcing stereotypes or limiting opportunities?

The "Good Things in Life"

Dr. Wolfensberger described SRV as a way of helping people access the "good things in life", which include:

  • Being treated with respect and dignity

  • Having meaningful relationships

  • Being included in community life

  • Having purpose and contribution

  • Enjoying freedom, autonomy, and safety

  • Experiencing personal growth and learning

When people have valued roles, they are far more likely to enjoy these things—and when they don’t, they are more at risk of being excluded from them.

SRV in Practice

  • Implementing SRV doesn't require complex systems or expensive programs—it’s about intentional thinking and action. It might mean:

  • Supporting someone to find and keep a meaningful job.

  • Encouraging participation in mainstream activities and clubs, rather than segregated programs.

  • Focusing on language, presentation, and appearance that enhances a person’s image and competence.

  • Helping people develop skills that match valued roles.

  • Connecting individuals to roles that reflect their interests and strengths.

Final Thought

Social Role Valorisation is more than a theory—it’s a mindset and approach that promotes dignity, respect, and opportunity for every person, regardless of their background or ability. By helping people achieve and maintain valued social roles, we can create a more inclusive and just society—one where everyone has the chance to live a rich and meaningful life.is Social Role Valorisation (SRV)?

Social Role Valorisation (SRV) is a framework developed by Dr. Wolf Wolfensberger that focuses on supporting people—especially those who are marginalised, such as people with disability—to take on valued roles in society. It recognises that certain individuals or groups are often unfairly seen as “less than” by society, which can lead to exclusion and limited opportunities.

SRV encourages the development of meaningful and respected social roles—such as being a student, employee, neighbour, friend, or volunteer. These roles help individuals gain identity, purpose, and recognition in their communities. People who hold valued roles are more likely to be included, treated with dignity, and offered opportunities to thrive.

By supporting marginalised people into these roles, SRV helps increase social acceptance, reduce stigma, and open the door to the “good things in life”—like connection, contribution, respect, and a sense of belonging.