Debile

Debile is a term that has historically been used to describe individuals with intellectual disabilities. The term is now considered outdated and offensive, and it has been replaced by more respectful and accurate terminology such as "intellectual disability" or "developmental disability."

Historical Context

The term "debile" originates from the Latin word debilis, meaning "weak" or "feeble." It was used in the early 20th century in medical and psychological contexts to categorize individuals with cognitive impairments. This classification was part of a broader system that included terms like idiot, imbecile, and moron, each denoting different levels of intellectual disability.

Modern Terminology

In contemporary usage, the term "debile" has been abandoned in favor of more respectful language. The preferred terms are "intellectual disability" or "developmental disability," which are used to describe a range of conditions characterized by significant limitations in both intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. These limitations originate before the age of 18 and affect everyday social and practical skills.

Intellectual Disability

Intellectual disability is a generalized disorder characterized by significantly impaired cognitive functioning and deficits in two or more adaptive behaviors. It is diagnosed through standardized testing and assessments of adaptive behavior. The condition can be caused by a variety of genetic and environmental factors, including Down syndrome, Fragile X syndrome, and prenatal exposure to alcohol or other toxins.

Developmental Disability

Developmental disability is a broader term that includes intellectual disability as well as other conditions that manifest during the developmental period. These conditions can affect physical, learning, language, or behavior areas. Examples include autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, and epilepsy.

Related Pages

• Intellectual disability
• Developmental disability
• Down syndrome
• Fragile X syndrome
• Autism spectrum disorder
• Cerebral palsy
• Epilepsy

See Also

• Special education
• Disability rights movement
• Inclusive education
• Adaptive behavior

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