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In 1980, the World Health Organization issued the International
Classification of Impairments, Disabilities, and Handicaps (ICIDH) in accordance
with Resolution (WHA29.35) of the World Health Assembly. This has appeared in 15
languages and further versions are in preparation. ICIDH terminology refers to
three concepts: impairments, disabilities, and handicaps defined as follows:
Impairment: "any loss or abnormality of a psychological, or anatomical structure or function". Impairments are disturbances at the level of the organ.
Disability: "any restriction or inability (resulting from an impairment) to perform an activity in the manner or within the range considered normal for a human being". This describes a functional limitation or activity restriction caused by an impairment. Disabilities are descriptions of disturbances in function at the level of the person.
Handicap: "any disadvantage for a given individual, resulting from an impairment or a disability, that limits or prevents the fulfillment of a role that is normal ... for that individual". The classification of handicap is a classification of circumstances that place individuals "at a disadvantage relative to their peers when viewed from the norms of society". The classification of handicap deals with the relationship that evolves between society, culture and people who have impairments or disabilities, as reflected in people's life roles.
WHO Division of Mental Health and Prevention of Substance Abuse, and WHO Collaborating Centres.
Please address any queries, comments or suggestions to:
Dr T.B.
Üstun
Scientist, EMS/MSA
20, Avenue Appia
CH-1211 Genève
27
Switzerland
Telephone: (+41 22) 791.36.09
Fax: (+41 22)
791.48.85
e-mail: mailto:ustunb@who.ch?subject=ICIDH
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