INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY

Intellectual disability (ID) is a developmental disorder characterized by significant limitations in both intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. This can impact everyday functioning in areas like communication, self-care, social skills, and academic performance.

Key Characteristics

1. Intellectual Functioning:

   • Typically measured by IQ tests, with a score of about 70 or below indicating a limitation.
   • Intellectual functioning includes reasoning, problem-solving, planning, abstract thinking, and learning from experience.

2. Adaptive Behavior:

   • Refers to everyday skills necessary for self-sufficiency, including:
     • Conceptual Skills: Academic skills, self-direction, and understanding safety.
     • Social Skills: Interpersonal abilities and communication.
     • Practical Skills: Personal care, job skills, and daily living tasks.

Causes

Intellectual disability can result from various factors, including:

1. Genetic Conditions: Such as Down syndrome, Fragile X syndrome, and other chromosomal abnormalities.
2. Prenatal Factors: Issues like exposure to toxins, infections during pregnancy (e.g., rubella), or malnutrition.
3. Perinatal Factors: Complications during childbirth, such as oxygen deprivation.
4. Postnatal Factors: Environmental factors like traumatic brain injury, severe malnutrition, or exposure to lead.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosed through comprehensive assessments, including standardized IQ tests and evaluations of adaptive behavior.
• A multidisciplinary team approach is often used, involving psychologists, pediatricians, and educators.