What does the term "disability" primarily refer to?

The term "disability" primarily refers to an inability to perform in a specific way due to physical, mental, or developmental conditions that affect one’s ability to engage in everyday activities. This definition encompasses a wide range of limitations that individuals may experience and captures the essence of how disabilities impact functioning in various contexts, whether in education, employment, or social interactions.

While a physical structure deficit, such as a broken limb, might lead to a disability, it does not fully encapsulate the broader concept, which can also include cognitive or emotional challenges. Similarly, the notion of having an advantage in a particular skill has no relevance to the definition of disability, as disabilities generally denote limitations rather than strengths. Lastly, requiring assistance is often a consequence of a disability, but it does not define the term itself. A disability highlights the difficulty in accomplishing tasks or following through with activities, which is crucial for understanding the context and support needed for individuals with disabilities.