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{{Infobox medical condition (new)
| name = Intellectual Disability
| image = A Special Olympics (SO) athlete crosses the finish line after completing the last leg of a 400 meter relay race during the Kadena Air Base SO event in Okinawa, Japan, Nov 111105-F-FL863-002.jpg
| caption = Children with intellectual disabilities and other developmental conditions competing in the [[Special Olympics World Games]]
| alt = A child runs through the finishing line
| field = [[Psychiatry]], [[Pediatrics]]
| synonyms = Intellectual developmental disability (IDD), general learning disability
| symptoms = Impaired intellectual function, difficulties with adaptive behavior, delayed developmental milestones
| complications = Learning difficulties, social isolation, communication challenges, increased risk of abuse, co-occurring mental health conditions
| onset = Early childhood
| duration = Lifelong
| causes = Genetic conditions, prenatal exposure to toxins, birth complications, infections, brain injuries, malnutrition
| risks = Family history, exposure to harmful substances during pregnancy, premature birth, poor prenatal care, iodine deficiency
| diagnosis = Clinical evaluation, standardized intelligence tests, assessment of adaptive functioning
| differential = [[Down syndrome]], [[Fragile X syndrome]], [[Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder]], [[Autism spectrum disorder]], [[Cerebral palsy]]
| prevention = Prenatal care, proper nutrition, early intervention, avoiding alcohol and drug use during pregnancy
| treatment = Special education, therapy (speech, occupational, behavioral), vocational training, social support
| medication = Symptomatic treatment for associated conditions (e.g., antipsychotics for behavioral challenges)
| prognosis = Varies; mild cases may achieve independence, while severe cases require lifelong care
| frequency = 153 million globally (2015)
| deaths = No direct fatality, but increased risk of secondary health complications
}}


'''Intellectual disability''' (also called intellectual developmental disability, general [[learning disability]], or mental retardation<ref>Tidy, Colin (25 January 2013). "General Learning Disability". Patient.info.</ref>) is an illness of the brain. Intellectual disability often starts when someone is very young.
== Overview ==
'''Intellectual disability''' (also called '''intellectual developmental disability''', '''general learning disability''', or previously known as '''mental retardation''') is a condition characterized by significant limitations in both intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. It originates before the age of 18 and affects various aspects of life, including reasoning, problem-solving, learning, and social skills.


== What is an intellectual disability? ==
Intellectual disability varies in severity, ranging from mild cases where individuals can live independently with some support to severe cases where full-time care is necessary. Early intervention and tailored education programs can help improve outcomes and independence.
[[File:Guy with down syndrome.jpg|thumb|281x281px|A [[Weightlifting|weightlifter]] with Down Syndrome]]
To have an intellectual disability, a person must:<ref>American Psychiatric Association (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (Fifth ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing. {{ISBN|978-0-89042-555-8}}. Lay summary (15 July 2013).</ref>
* Have an [[intelligence quotient]] (IQ) score of less than 70; and  
* Have trouble with parts of daily life.


=== Types of intellectual disabilities ===
== Classification and Severity Levels ==
There are two major types of intellectual disability.
Intellectual disability is classified into four levels based on the severity of impairment:


The first is ''syndromic intellectual disability''. This means that the person has a [[syndrome]] that causes intellectual disability, as well as medical issues and other problems.  [[Down syndrome]] and [[fetal alcohol syndrome]] are two examples of syndromic intellectual disabilities.
* Mild Intellectual Disability (IQ 50-70)
* May achieve academic skills up to elementary level
* Can live independently with minimal support
* May struggle with complex tasks such as managing finances
* Moderate Intellectual Disability (IQ 35-49)
* Can develop basic communication and self-care skills
* Requires supervised living arrangements
* May engage in vocational training and simple work tasks
* Severe Intellectual Disability (IQ 20-34)
* Limited communication abilities
* Requires significant assistance with daily activities
* Often has physical disabilities or medical conditions
* Profound Intellectual Disability (IQ below 20)
* Severe developmental delays
* Requires constant supervision and care
* Minimal verbal and nonverbal communication


The second is ''non-syndromic intellectual disability''. This means that the intellectual disability is not a part of a syndrome.
== Signs and Symptoms ==
The symptoms of intellectual disability can vary widely based on severity. Some common indicators include:


=== Levels of intellectual disability ===
* Developmental Delays – Delayed milestones such as walking, talking, or toilet training
There are three levels of intellectual disability, based on how severe a person's disability is:<ref name=":0">Daily DK, Ardinger HH, Holmes GE (February 2000). "Identification and evaluation of mental retardation". Am Fam Physician 61 (4): 1059–67, 1070. <nowiki>PMID 10706158</nowiki>.</ref>
* Learning Difficulties – Struggles with academic concepts such as reading, writing, and mathematics
* The first and most common is ''mild intellectual disability''. A person with mild intellectual disability can usually act without help from other people, but may need help with things like paying taxes.
* Social and Communication Challenges – Difficulty understanding social cues and forming relationships
* The second level is moderate intellectual disability. Someone with moderate intellectual disability has an IQ between 40 and 55. They cannot live by themselves, but can learn to perform basic tasks.
* Behavioral Problems – Impulsivity, difficulty coping with frustration, repetitive behaviors
* The third level is severe intellectual disability. Someone with severe intellectual disability needs a lot of help and can only do simple things.
* Adaptive Functioning Issues – Problems with self-care, hygiene, money management, and independent living
Mild intellectual disability may not be noticed until a child starts school. Moderate and severe intellectual disability can be seen before a child starts school.


== What does intellectual disability look like? ==
== Causes and Risk Factors ==
[[File:Photo of baby with FAS.jpg|thumb|A baby with fetal alcohol syndrome]]
Intellectual disability can result from a variety of genetic, environmental, and medical factors.
People with syndromic intellectual disabilities may have a "typical look."  For example, the picture on the right shows facial features that many people with fetal alcohol syndrome have.  People with non-syndromic intellectual disability do not look any different than a person without a disability.  The symptoms of intellectual disability are all behavioral.


People with intellectual disability may have some or all of these:<ref name=":0" />
'''Genetic Conditions'''
* They may learn to crawl, walk, or talk later than other children.
Certain genetic disorders are known to cause intellectual disability, including:
* They may have trouble remembering things.
* [[Down syndrome]] – Caused by an extra chromosome 21
* They may have trouble learning how to act in public.
* [[Fragile X syndrome]] – A mutation on the X chromosome leading to cognitive impairments
* They may have trouble figuring out problems.
* [[Rett syndrome]] – A neurodevelopmental disorder affecting mostly females
* They may learn how to take care of themselves slower.
* [[Phenylketonuria (PKU)]] – A metabolic disorder that, if untreated, leads to intellectual disability
* They may not learn when to not say or do something.
Most children with intellectual disabilities can learn.  However, they usually will not learn things as fast as other children. They may need to be taught things in a certain way in order to learn them and remember them.


Intellectual disability is different from [[dementia]]. In dementia, people forget things, and they lose skills they once had. People with an intellectual disability never learn those skills.
'''Prenatal and Birth-Related Causes'''
Some conditions that affect fetal development or occur at birth can lead to intellectual disability:
* Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) – Caused by alcohol consumption during pregnancy
* Oxygen deprivation at birth – Can result in brain damage
* Premature birth – Increases the risk of developmental delays
* Maternal infections – Such as rubella or syphilis during pregnancy


== Causes ==
'''Environmental and Postnatal Causes'''
Often, nobody can determine what caused a child's intellectual disability.  This happens in between one-third and one-half of all cases of intellectual disability.<ref name=":0" />
* Severe malnutrition – Lack of essential nutrients affects brain development
* Lead or mercury poisoning – Exposure to heavy metals can impair cognitive functions
* Brain injuries – Trauma, infections like meningitis, or encephalitis can cause intellectual disability


The top three most common causes of intellectual disability are [[Down syndrome]], [[Velocardiofacial syndrom]]e, and [[Fetal alcohol syndrome]].<ref name=":0" />
== Diagnosis ==
 
A diagnosis of intellectual disability is based on three key criteria:
=== Genetic disorders ===
[[Genetic disorder]]s are caused by problems with a child's [[gene]]s.  Children are [[Birth defect|born with these disorders]].
* For example, Down syndrome happens when a child has an extra copy of the 21st [[chromosome]].  Another example is [[22q11.2 deletion syndrome]], which causes other conditions like [[DiGeorge syndrome]].
 
=== Problems during pregnancy ===
Substances called [[teratogen]]s can prevent a [[fetus]] from developing normally.  If a teratogen enters a woman's body while she is [[Pregnancy|pregnant]], it can cause developmental problems, like intellectual disabilities.
 
Examples of teratogens that can cause intellectual disabilities include:
* [[Alcohol]]
** Alcohol is the most common cause of intellectual disability which can be prevented.  Alcohol is [[poison]]ous to a fetus and can cause fetal alcohol syndrome if a mother drinks while pregnant
* [[Illegal drugs]]
* Certain medications, like [[warfarin]] (a blood-thinning medicine) and [[thalidomide]]
* Certain [[toxic]] [[chemicals]], like [[Lead poisoning|lead]] and [[Mercury poisoning|mercury]], if a woman is exposed to enough of them during her pregnancy
* Certain diseases, like [[rubella]] and [[syphilis]], if the mother has them during pregnancy


=== Problems during birth ===
1. Significantly Below-Average Intelligence – Measured using standardized IQ tests (score below 70)
For example, if a child does not get enough oxygen during birth, it can hurt the brain and lead to intellectual disability later.
2. Deficits in Adaptive Behavior – Difficulty in practical skills such as self-care, social interaction, and independent living
3. Onset Before Adulthood – Symptoms must appear before the age of 18


=== Diseases and trauma ===
Common assessments used for diagnosis include:
Some childhood illnesses, like [[measles]] and [[Pertussis|whooping cough]], can cause intellectual disability if not treated properly.  So can [[infection]]s that affect the brain, like [[meningitis]] and [[Virus|viral]] [[encephalitis]].
* Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) – Measures cognitive ability
* Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales – Assesses daily living skills
* Developmental screening tests – Evaluate a child’s ability to meet milestones


[[Brain injury|Brain injuries]] can cause intellectual disability at any age.
== Treatment and Management ==
There is no cure for intellectual disability, but early intervention and supportive therapies can enhance an individual's quality of life.


=== Malnutrition ===
'''Educational Support'''
A [[Malnutrition|severe lack of nutrition]] can lead to intellectual disability over time. {{fact|date=April 2018}}
* Special education programs tailored to individual learning needs
* Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) to help students succeed
* Assistive technology, such as speech-to-text software


=== Not having enough iodine in the body ===
'''Therapies'''
[[Iodine deficiencies|Iodine deficiency]] (not having enough [[iodine]] in the body) can lead to several medical issues, including intellectual disability.  The most common way to prevent this is by adding [[Iodised salt|iodine to salt]].  This is a much more common problem in [[Developing country|developing countries]].
* Speech therapy – Helps with communication skills
* Occupational therapy – Develops motor skills and self-care abilities
* Behavioral therapy – Teaches coping mechanisms and social skills


== Diagnosis ==
'''Medical and Social Support'''
[[File:Swing Occupational Therapy IMG 8713.jpg|thumb|A boy uses a swing during [[occupational therapy]]]]
* Medications – May be used to manage co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, ADHD, or seizures
In the [[DSM]], there are three requirements a person has to meet in order to be diagnosed with an intellectual disability.<ref>American Psychiatric Association (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (Fifth ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing. {{ISBN|978-0-89042-555-8}}. Lay summary (15 July 2013)</ref>
* Vocational training – Helps individuals learn job-related skills
* Community-based support services – Provide assistance with daily living


=== Low intelligence quotient (IQ) ===
== Prevention ==
First, the person must have a low [[intelligence quotient]] (IQ). IQ is measured with an [[IQ test]].
Many cases of intellectual disability can be prevented through proactive measures:
* Prenatal care – Regular check-ups and avoiding harmful substances
* Newborn screening – Early detection of metabolic disorders like PKU
* Vaccination – Prevents infections that can cause brain damage (e.g., rubella, meningitis)
* Good nutrition – Ensures brain development during pregnancy and early childhood


If the person has an IQ of below 70, they ''may'' have an intellectual disability. However, they must still meet the other two requirements to be diagnosed with an intellectual disability.
== Social and Legal Considerations ==
 
Individuals with intellectual disabilities often face challenges related to stigma, discrimination, and accessibility. Advocacy efforts aim to:
=== Trouble with daily activities ===
* Promote inclusive education and employment opportunities
Second, to qualify for an intellectual disability, a person must have trouble in more than one area of normal daily activities. These activities are often called "adaptive behaviors" or "activities of daily living (ADLs)."  Some examples of adaptive behavior are:
* Protect against exploitation and abuse
* Getting dressed
* Ensure access to healthcare and social services
* Using the bathroom
* Uphold legal rights under disability protection laws
* Eating and drinking
* Being able to have a conversation
* Acting properly in different situations
To see if a child is having trouble with these, a doctor will talk to people who know the child, and will watch the child's behavior.
 
=== Beginning in childhood ===
The final requirement is that the symptoms of intellectual disability have to begin in childhood or [[adolescence]]. If the issues do not start at a young age, they are probably caused by a different illness of the brain.
 
== Management ==
There is currently no cure for intellectual disability. Those affected can learn to cope and do many things, if they get enough support and are taught well. There are many places around the world for someone with intellectual disability to get help. These places can take care of people with intellectual disabilities, as well as help them find jobs, find a house of their own, or help them take care of their children.
 
There are some different ways for people with intellectual disability and those around them to learn how to help the person with the disability.<ref>Mash, E., & Wolfe, D. (2013). Abnormal child psychology. (5th ed., pp. 308-313). Wadsworth Cengage Learning.</ref> One kind is psychosocial treatment. This is meant for very young children. Psychosocial treatment helps them learn basic skills and increase learning over their lifetime. Another kind is [[behavior]]al treatment. This is meant to help young people, but can be used for adults as well. Behavior treatment helps teach language skills as well as social skills like sharing or following instructions. A third kind of help is [[Cognitive-behavioral therapy|cognitive-behavioral treatment]]. This is a combination of the previous two treatments. Cognitive-behavioral therapy helps children with intellectual disability both learn skills and learn how to plan ahead. Another type of help a person with intellectual disability can get is family-oriented help. Family-oriented help focuses on teaching family members how to help the person in their family with intellectual disability.
 
Many people with an intellectual disability have other health problems, for which they will be given specific drugs. As an example, [[Autism|autistic]] children with developmental delay may use [[Antipsychotic|anti-psychotics]] or [[mood stabilizer]]s to help with behavior. Giving drugs to intellectually disabled people needs to be monitored; side-effects often occur, and are wrongly diagnosed as problems with behavior or as [[Psychiatry|psychiatric]] problems.<ref>Kalachnik, JE.; Hanzel, TE.; Sevenich, R.; Harder, SR. (Sep 2002). "Benzodiazepine behavioral side effects: review and implications for individuals with mental retardation". Am J Ment Retard 107 (5): 376–410. doi:10.1352/0895-8017(2002)107<0376:BBSERA>2.0.CO;2. <nowiki>PMID 12186578</nowiki></ref>


== History ==
== History ==
[[File:Boy with Down syndrome Wellcome L0067015.jpg|thumb|A boy with Down Syndrome gets his picture taken]]
Throughout history, individuals with intellectual disabilities have faced marginalization and mistreatment. In ancient civilizations, those with disabilities were often hidden from society. During the 19th and early 20th centuries, institutionalization was common, with little emphasis on education or rehabilitation.
People have had intellectual disability throughout history. People with intellectual disability have had a lot of trouble in the past. The oldest idea of where intellectual disability came from was in ancient Greece. [[Hippocrates]] thought that intellectual disability was caused by an issue with the [[Four temperaments|four humors]]. For several hundred years in Europe, churches took care of people with intellectual disabilities. In the 17th century, Thomas Willis suggested that intellectual disability was a [[disease]] caused by issues with the structure of the [[brain]].<ref name=":1">Wickham, Parnell. Encyclopedia of Children and Childhood in History and Society. Retrieved 8 October 2010.</ref> In the 18th and 19th centuries, people with intellectual disabilities were put in [[Psychiatric hospital|asylums]]. The asylums would give them basics like food and shelter, but were not always good to the people in them. In the early 20th century, people with intellectual disability were made to not be able to have children and could not marry. It was thought that this would reduce the amount of intellectual disabilities in the future.<ref name=":1" /> This is not done anymore because it does not follow the idea of [[human rights]].
 
In the 1950s, a group called the Civitans started to help people with intellectual disability. In the '70s, many people wanted to remove the [[stigma]] around people with intellectual disability. Now, people with intellectual disability are treated as people with something to be fixed instead of less than “normal” people. There are also fewer people with intellectual disability being sent to asylums.<ref name=":1" />


Words that were used to describe people with an intellectual disability have changed a lot.  The most common words used today are “special”, “challenged”, "learning disabled" and “developmentally delayed”. Some previous words to describe people with intellectual disability are “cretin”, “idiot”, “imbecile”, “moron”, and “retarded”, all of which are now regarded as highly insulting.
Modern perspectives emphasize inclusion, human rights, and community-based support. Landmark legislation, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), has helped improve the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities worldwide.


== Society ==
== Related Conditions ==
People with intellectual disability are often treated badly by people without disabilities. They are often not allowed to make choices about their own lives and are not considered a full part of society. Their abusers are often people who are supposed to care for them. 39-83% of women with intellectual disability will be sexually abused before they are 18 years old.<ref>http://www.wwild.org/Victims%20of%20Crime/Downloads/Research/Vulnerability%20and%20Abuse%20of%20People%20with%20an%20Intellectual%20Disability/Davis%20n.d.pdf</ref>
* [[Autism spectrum disorder]]
* [[Cerebral palsy]]
* [[Learning disabilities]]
* [[Global developmental delay]]
* [[Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders]]


The [[dignity]] and [[human rights]] of people with intellectual disability are protected by the [[Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities]] as well as other [[Disability|disabilities]] and equally like other persons without disabilities.
== See Also ==
* [[Special education]]
* [[Assistive technology]]
* [[Social work]]
* [[Cognitive development]]


==References==
{{Disability}}
<references />
{{Neurology}}
{{Psychiatry}}
{{Pediatrics}}
{{stub}}
{{stub}}
{{Pervasive developmental disorders}}
[[Category:Intellectual disability]]
[[Category:Psychiatry]]
[[Category:Developmental disorders]]
[[Category:Psychology]]
[[Category:Pediatrics]]
[[Category:Symptoms]]
[[Category:Disability]]

Latest revision as of 20:50, 19 March 2025

Intellectual Disability
A child runs through the finishing line
Synonyms Intellectual developmental disability (IDD), general learning disability
Pronounce N/A
Field Psychiatry, Pediatrics
Symptoms Impaired intellectual function, difficulties with adaptive behavior, delayed developmental milestones
Complications Learning difficulties, social isolation, communication challenges, increased risk of abuse, co-occurring mental health conditions
Onset Early childhood
Duration Lifelong
Types N/A
Causes Genetic conditions, prenatal exposure to toxins, birth complications, infections, brain injuries, malnutrition
Risks Family history, exposure to harmful substances during pregnancy, premature birth, poor prenatal care, iodine deficiency
Diagnosis Clinical evaluation, standardized intelligence tests, assessment of adaptive functioning
Differential diagnosis Down syndrome, Fragile X syndrome, Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, Autism spectrum disorder, Cerebral palsy
Prevention Prenatal care, proper nutrition, early intervention, avoiding alcohol and drug use during pregnancy
Treatment Special education, therapy (speech, occupational, behavioral), vocational training, social support
Medication Symptomatic treatment for associated conditions (e.g., antipsychotics for behavioral challenges)
Prognosis Varies; mild cases may achieve independence, while severe cases require lifelong care
Frequency 153 million globally (2015)
Deaths No direct fatality, but increased risk of secondary health complications


Overview

Intellectual disability (also called intellectual developmental disability, general learning disability, or previously known as mental retardation) is a condition characterized by significant limitations in both intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. It originates before the age of 18 and affects various aspects of life, including reasoning, problem-solving, learning, and social skills.

Intellectual disability varies in severity, ranging from mild cases where individuals can live independently with some support to severe cases where full-time care is necessary. Early intervention and tailored education programs can help improve outcomes and independence.

Classification and Severity Levels

Intellectual disability is classified into four levels based on the severity of impairment:

  • Mild Intellectual Disability (IQ 50-70)
  • May achieve academic skills up to elementary level
  • Can live independently with minimal support
  • May struggle with complex tasks such as managing finances
  • Moderate Intellectual Disability (IQ 35-49)
  • Can develop basic communication and self-care skills
  • Requires supervised living arrangements
  • May engage in vocational training and simple work tasks
  • Severe Intellectual Disability (IQ 20-34)
  • Limited communication abilities
  • Requires significant assistance with daily activities
  • Often has physical disabilities or medical conditions
  • Profound Intellectual Disability (IQ below 20)
  • Severe developmental delays
  • Requires constant supervision and care
  • Minimal verbal and nonverbal communication

Signs and Symptoms

The symptoms of intellectual disability can vary widely based on severity. Some common indicators include:

  • Developmental Delays – Delayed milestones such as walking, talking, or toilet training
  • Learning Difficulties – Struggles with academic concepts such as reading, writing, and mathematics
  • Social and Communication Challenges – Difficulty understanding social cues and forming relationships
  • Behavioral Problems – Impulsivity, difficulty coping with frustration, repetitive behaviors
  • Adaptive Functioning Issues – Problems with self-care, hygiene, money management, and independent living

Causes and Risk Factors

Intellectual disability can result from a variety of genetic, environmental, and medical factors.

Genetic Conditions Certain genetic disorders are known to cause intellectual disability, including:

Prenatal and Birth-Related Causes Some conditions that affect fetal development or occur at birth can lead to intellectual disability:

  • Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) – Caused by alcohol consumption during pregnancy
  • Oxygen deprivation at birth – Can result in brain damage
  • Premature birth – Increases the risk of developmental delays
  • Maternal infections – Such as rubella or syphilis during pregnancy

Environmental and Postnatal Causes

  • Severe malnutrition – Lack of essential nutrients affects brain development
  • Lead or mercury poisoning – Exposure to heavy metals can impair cognitive functions
  • Brain injuries – Trauma, infections like meningitis, or encephalitis can cause intellectual disability

Diagnosis

A diagnosis of intellectual disability is based on three key criteria:

1. Significantly Below-Average Intelligence – Measured using standardized IQ tests (score below 70) 2. Deficits in Adaptive Behavior – Difficulty in practical skills such as self-care, social interaction, and independent living 3. Onset Before Adulthood – Symptoms must appear before the age of 18

Common assessments used for diagnosis include:

  • Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) – Measures cognitive ability
  • Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales – Assesses daily living skills
  • Developmental screening tests – Evaluate a child’s ability to meet milestones

Treatment and Management

There is no cure for intellectual disability, but early intervention and supportive therapies can enhance an individual's quality of life.

Educational Support

  • Special education programs tailored to individual learning needs
  • Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) to help students succeed
  • Assistive technology, such as speech-to-text software

Therapies

  • Speech therapy – Helps with communication skills
  • Occupational therapy – Develops motor skills and self-care abilities
  • Behavioral therapy – Teaches coping mechanisms and social skills

Medical and Social Support

  • Medications – May be used to manage co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, ADHD, or seizures
  • Vocational training – Helps individuals learn job-related skills
  • Community-based support services – Provide assistance with daily living

Prevention

Many cases of intellectual disability can be prevented through proactive measures:

  • Prenatal care – Regular check-ups and avoiding harmful substances
  • Newborn screening – Early detection of metabolic disorders like PKU
  • Vaccination – Prevents infections that can cause brain damage (e.g., rubella, meningitis)
  • Good nutrition – Ensures brain development during pregnancy and early childhood

Social and Legal Considerations

Individuals with intellectual disabilities often face challenges related to stigma, discrimination, and accessibility. Advocacy efforts aim to:

  • Promote inclusive education and employment opportunities
  • Protect against exploitation and abuse
  • Ensure access to healthcare and social services
  • Uphold legal rights under disability protection laws

History

Throughout history, individuals with intellectual disabilities have faced marginalization and mistreatment. In ancient civilizations, those with disabilities were often hidden from society. During the 19th and early 20th centuries, institutionalization was common, with little emphasis on education or rehabilitation.

Modern perspectives emphasize inclusion, human rights, and community-based support. Landmark legislation, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), has helped improve the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities worldwide.

Related Conditions

See Also


Disability








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