Which of the following is NOT considered a disability under the ADA?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) provides a broad definition of disability that includes physical and mental impairments that substantially limit one or more major life activities. However, not all conditions recognized as mental health disorders are classified as disabilities under this legislation.

Kleptomania, which is an impulse control disorder characterized by a recurrent urge to steal items that are not needed for personal use, may not be deemed a disability under the ADA. This is primarily because it can be viewed as a behavioral issue that often involves an element of choice and volition, rather than a physical or mental impairment that severely limits a person’s ability to engage in significant life activities.

In contrast, conditions like AIDS, blindness, and diabetes are well-established medical diagnoses recognized by the ADA as disabilities because they generally lead to significant restrictions on daily functioning. These conditions often require ongoing medical management and can severely impact major life activities, making them qualifying disabilities under the ADA guidelines.

Understanding this distinction helps clarify the interpretation of what constitutes a disability in legal terms, as well as the protections and accommodations that individuals with specific conditions may be entitled to under the law.