What does the American Disabilities Act define as a disability?

The American Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a disability as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. This definition encompasses a wide range of conditions, indicating that the law protects individuals whose daily functioning may be significantly hindered due to their impairments. By specifying both physical and mental impairments, the ADA recognizes the complexity of disabilities and acknowledges that they can stem from a diverse array of circumstances, including chronic illnesses, cognitive impairments, and other significant health conditions.

In contrast, the other options do not fully align with the ADA's definition. A temporary medical condition does not meet the criteria for a disability as defined by the ADA, which emphasizes the ongoing and substantial limitations imposed by the impairment. Similarly, an emotional issue that is short-term does not qualify as it implies a lack of permanence and significant impact. Challenges with academic performance, while important in educational contexts, do not specifically relate to the definition of disability under the ADA unless they are tied to an underlying impairment that substantially limits major life activities.