Intellectual Disability

Definition: Intellectual disability, also known as intellectual developmental disorder or mental retardation, is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior.

Intellectual Functioning

Definition: Intellectual functioning refers to a person’s capacity for reasoning, problem-solving, abstract thinking, learning, and understanding new information. Individuals with intellectual disability typically have below-average intellectual functioning.

Adaptive Behavior

Definition: Adaptive behavior encompasses the skills necessary for independent functioning and daily life activities, including communication, self-care, social interactions, and interpersonal skills. Individuals with intellectual disability often experience difficulties in adaptive behavior.

Diagnosis

Definition: Diagnosis of intellectual disability involves assessing an individual’s intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior using standardized tests and evaluating their performance in comparison to their age group. The condition is typically diagnosed during early childhood or adolescence.

Etiology

Definition: Intellectual disability can have various causes, including genetic factors, complications during pregnancy or childbirth, exposure to toxins or infections, and medical conditions affecting brain development. In some cases, the exact cause may be unknown.

Levels of Severity

Definition: Intellectual disability is classified into different levels of severity based on the person’s intellectual functioning. The three levels include mild, moderate, and severe, with mild intellectual disability being the mildest form, and severe intellectual disability involving significant cognitive impairments.

Support and Intervention

Definition: Individuals with intellectual disability may benefit from a range of support services and interventions, including educational accommodations, specialized therapies, skill-building programs, and community support. These interventions aim to enhance their intellectual functioning, adaptive behavior, and overall quality of life.