What is the Difference Between Disability and Handicap?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The terms "disability" and "handicap" are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings:
- Disability refers to a functional limitation with regard to a particular activity. It is a result of an impairment, which is any loss or abnormality of psychological, physiological, or anatomical structure or function.
- Handicap refers to an environmental factor or obstacle that prevents a person with a disability from fulfilling a normal life role or participating in activities. It is not a characteristic of a person but rather a description of the relationship between the person and their environment.
In summary:
- A disability is a functional limitation resulting from an impairment.
- A handicap is an environmental barrier or obstacle that hinders a person with a disability from participating in activities or fulfilling a normal life role.
It is essential to understand these differences as it helps in providing appropriate support and accommodations for individuals with disabilities, reducing barriers, and promoting inclusion.
Comparative Table: Disability vs Handicap
The main difference between a disability and a handicap lies in their definitions and how they affect an individual's daily life. Here is a comparison table highlighting the differences:
| Disability | Handicap |
|---|---|
| A disability refers to an inherent, objective condition that affects a person's physical, mental, or emotional functioning, preventing them from participating in activities or engaging socially to the same extent as someone without the condition. | A handicap refers to an impairment that limits activities due to a physical disability, and it is often seen as a barrier or circumstance that makes progress or success difficult. |
| Disabilities can range from minor to severe in terms of range and activity. | Handicaps are limited to impairments and are often temporary or can be mitigated by assistance or adaptations. |
| Examples of disabilities include autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, hearing impairment, and vision loss. | Examples of handicaps include the inability to walk, read, or communicate, which can be caused by a disability or other circumstances. |
It is possible for a disability to be the cause of a handicap, but a person who is disabled does not necessarily have to be handicapped, especially if they can find a way around their disability, such as using braille for the visually impaired or wheelchairs for those who cannot walk.
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