Final answer:
A learning disability is primarily a specific neurological impairment that affects different areas of cognition, particularly language or reading. It is not primarily due to cultural or economic disadvantage or intellectual disability.
Step-by-step explanation:
A learning disability is primarily defined as a specific neurological impairment that affects different areas of cognition, particularly language or reading. It is important to note that learning disabilities are not the same as intellectual disabilities, which are global intellectual or developmental disabilities. Learning disabilities can result from various factors, such as low birth weight/preterm birth, fetal alcohol syndrome, or specific neurological impairments.
In contrast to what some people may believe, a learning disability is not primarily due to cultural or economic disadvantage or intellectual disability (having a below-average IQ). Learning disabilities can affect individuals with average to above-average intelligence, showing that the disability is specific to a particular area and not a measure of overall intellectual ability.