Which of the following is a protected disability under the ADA?

• A. Personality traits (chronic lateness)
• B. Obesity
• C. Illegal drug use-related disability
• D. Learning disability

Answer: (D)

Under the ADA, a disability is a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, such as learning, reading, or concentrating. A learning disability fits this definition because it affects how a person processes information and learns, which can substantially limit academic and work-related tasks. Personality traits like chronic lateness aren’t impairments. Obesity by itself isn’t considered a disability under the ADA unless it’s tied to a condition that substantially limits a major life activity. Illegal drug use-related conditions aren’t protected disabilities unless the person is in recovery and not currently using illegal drugs. So, a learning disability is the protected disability described.