What is the Difference Between Disorder and Disability?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The terms "disorder" and "disability" are often used to describe different aspects of human functioning and experiences. Here are the key differences between the two:
- Disorder: A disorder refers to a medical or psychological condition that deviates from typical functioning, often diagnosed based on specific criteria. It is a condition that disrupts an individual's functioning, and it may or may not give rise to a disability depending on its severity.
- Disability: A disability is a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, such as walking, speaking, learning, or working. Disabilities can be visible, like a person who uses a wheelchair or has a hearing impairment, or invisible, like someone with autism or dyslexia. Disability is a legal term that appears in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and other legislation.
In summary, a disorder is a medical or psychological condition that may lead to a disability, while a disability is a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits an individual's ability to perform certain activities. Not all disabilities are the result of disorders, and not all disorders lead to disabilities. It is essential to understand the differences between these terms to promote a more inclusive and empathetic understanding of human differences and to avoid perpetuating stigma and misunderstanding.
Comparative Table: Disorder vs Disability
The main difference between a disorder and a disability lies in their definitions and how they affect an individual's daily life. Here is a comparison between the two:
| Disorder | Disability |
|---|---|
| A disorder refers to an abnormality or condition that a person suffers from. | A disability is a restriction or reduced ability that is caused by the impairment. |
| Disorders can be physical, mental, or cognitive, and may or may not impact a person's daily functioning. | Disabilities can be related to conditions present at birth, affect functions later in life, and may limit a person's ability to participate in daily activities. |
| Disorders can be classified as diseases, conditions, or syndromes. | Disabilities can be classified based on different models, such as the Medical Model, Functional Model, and Social Model. |
In summary, a disorder refers to an abnormality or condition, while a disability is a restriction or reduced ability caused by that condition. Disorders can impact a person's daily life, but not always, whereas disabilities often limit a person's ability to participate in daily activities.
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