Intellectual disabilities

Intellectual disabilities (pronounced in-tuh-lek-choo-uhl dis-uh-bil-i-tees), also known as intellectual developmental disorders or general learning disabilities, are a group of developmental disorders characterized by significant limitations in both intellectual functioning and in adaptive behavior, which covers many everyday social and practical skills. This disability originates before the age of 18.

Etymology

The term "intellectual disability" is a modern term used to replace outdated and offensive terms such as "mental retardation". The term "intellectual" is derived from the Latin intellectus meaning "understanding", and "disability" from the Latin dis and habilitas, meaning "not able" or "not having the ability".

Definition

Intellectual disabilities affect the ability to learn, reason, and problem solve. People with intellectual disabilities may take longer to learn to speak, walk, and take care of their personal needs such as dressing or eating. They are likely to have trouble learning in school and may learn at a slower pace than other children. They may have difficulty understanding and following social rules.

Causes

Intellectual disabilities can be caused by any condition that impairs development of the brain before birth, during birth, or in the childhood years. Several hundred causes have been discovered, but the cause for about one-third of intellectual disabilities cannot be found. Some of the most common known causes of intellectual disability include genetic conditions, problems during pregnancy, problems at birth, health problems, and exposure to certain environmental factors.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of intellectual disabilities typically involves both an IQ test and an assessment of the individual's adaptive behaviors. A diagnosis of intellectual disability is made if an individual has an IQ score below 70 and significant limitations in two or more adaptive skill areas.

Treatment

While there is no cure for intellectual disabilities, early intervention can provide valuable skills and strategies to help the individual cope with and overcome their limitations. This often involves a combination of physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and educational services.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Intellectual disabilities
Wikipedia's article - Intellectual disabilities

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Intellectual disabilities