WEST-E Special Education Practice Test

What term describes a disadvantage imposed on an individual?

1. Disability

2. Handicap

3. Exceptional Learners

4. Deinstitutionalization

The correct answer is: Handicap

The term that describes a disadvantage imposed on an individual is "handicap." This term refers to limitations or barriers that restrict an individual in achieving their potential due to a disability, environmental factors, or societal attitudes. A handicap may manifest in various ways, such as difficulties in accessing education, employment, or community resources. Understanding the distinction between disability and handicap is important. While a disability refers to a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, a handicap is the social disadvantage that results from the disability. The concept of handicap emphasizes the interaction between the individual and their environment, focusing on how societal attitudes and structures can impede a person's growth and participation. In contrast, exceptional learners refer to students who have unique learning needs, which may include those with disabilities as well as gifted individuals. Deinstitutionalization pertains to the movement away from institutional care for individuals with disabilities towards community-based support, which does not directly relate to the concept of disadvantage imposed on an individual. Thus, the term "handicap" clearly aligns with the idea of a disadvantage imposed on someone due to circumstances beyond their control.