How do the authors distinguish between a disability and a handicap using the example of Laura in Chapter 1?

The authors distinguish between a disability and a handicap by explaining that a disability is an inability to perform a task due to a loss of functioning, while a handicap is the environmental or social obstacles that a person with a disability faces. In Laura's case, her inability to walk is a disability, but the architectural barriers at her school that prevent her from accessing certain facilities are considered handicaps.

The authors clarify the distinction between a disability and a handicap using Laura's example. A disability refers to an inability or reduced capacity to perform a task due to a loss or reduction in functioning. For Laura, her disability is her inability to walk due to a diving accident. On the other hand, a handicap is the impact or consequence of a disability, particularly the difficulties encountered in interacting with the environment. Laura's handicap arises from the architectural barriers at her school, which prevent her from accessing the water fountain, the computer lab, or the bathroom independently. This example illustrates that while a disability is a personal limitation, a handicap is about the challenges imposed by the environment or society.