Intellectual Disability is a developmental disorder characterized by significant limitations in both intellectual functioning and in adaptive behavior. This disability originates before the age of 18. (Disabilities, Definition of intellectual disability, 2013)
Intellectual functioning refers an individual’s general mental capacity, such as learning, reasoning, and problem solving. One way to measure intellectual functioning is through an IQ test. Generally, an IQ test score of around 70-75 indicates a limitation in intellectual functioning.
Adaptive behavior refers to the collection of conceptual, social, and practical skills that are learnt and performed by people in their everyday lives. Limitations in adaptive behavior involves impairment of general mental abilities in three skills, namely:
- Conceptual skills – language and literacy; money, time, and number concepts
- Social skills – empathy, social judgement, interpersonal communication skills, and the ability to make and retain friendships
- Practical skills – personal care, job responsibilities, money management, recreation, and task management
Causes of Intellectual Disability
There are several factors that could cause Intellectual Disability.
- Infections (both pre- and post-natal)
- Chromosomal abnormalities (Down syndrome, Fragile X syndrome)
- Environmental (alcohol, drugs, or other toxins)
- Nutritional (malnutrition)
- Trauma (both pre- and post-natal)
Treatment for Intellectual Disability
Intellectual Disability is a life-long condition. However, with early, sustained and appropriate personalized support, it is possible to improve the individual’s level of life functioning. (Disabilities, Definition of intellectual disability, 2013)
The treatment for ID should focus on minimizing the potential debilitating effects of ID on the individual and their families, as well as to strengthen and expand on the individual’s strengths.
Many types of supports and services can help, such as;
- Early intervention (EIPIC programme for children below 7 years old)
- Special education schools (SPED schools)
- Family support
- Transition services
- Day programs
- Housing options
Given proper support, people with Intellectual Disability are capable of fulfilling successful and productive roles in society. A diagnosis is, more often than not, merely a tool to determine the individual’s eligibility for services and protection of rights, such as special education services, home and community services. It is, by no means, an indication that the individual’s capabilities and potential are limited.
Bibliography
Disabilities, A. A. (2013). Definition of intellectual disability. Retrieved from http://aaidd.org/intellectual-disability/definition