1. What is an Intellectual Disability?
Answer:
An intellectual disability is when a person has below-average intellectual functioning and limitations in adaptive skills (such as communication, self-care, and social skills).
In the DSM-5, it must begin before age 18 and affect both intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviour.
2. How is an Intellectual Disability Diagnosed (DSM-5 criteria)?
Answer:
The DSM-5 requires:
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Deficits in intellectual functions (e.g., reasoning, problem solving, learning), confirmed by assessment and testing.
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Deficits in adaptive functioning (meeting personal independence and social responsibility standards).
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Onset during the developmental period (childhood or adolescence).
3. What are the levels of severity?
Answer:
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Mild – Can live independently with some support; may have some learning difficulties.
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Moderate – Needs moderate support for daily life and work tasks.
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Severe – Needs extensive daily support; limited communication skills.
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Profound – Needs full-time care; significant communication and mobility challenges.
4. What causes Intellectual Disabilities?
Answer:
Causes can include:
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Genetic conditions (e.g., Down syndrome, Fragile X syndrome).
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Pregnancy issues (e.g., infections, substance exposure, malnutrition).
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Birth complications (e.g., oxygen deprivation, prematurity).
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Illness or injury (e.g., meningitis, head injury).
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Unknown causes (in some cases).
5. How can people with Intellectual Disabilities be supported?
Answer:
Support can include:
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Education support plans (IEPs in the USA, EHCPs in the UK).
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Life skills training (cooking, money management).
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Speech and occupational therapy.
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Supportive technology (apps, visual aids).
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Inclusive community activities.
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Family and carer support.
6. What is the difference between Intellectual Disability and Learning Disability/Difficulty?
Answer:
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Intellectual Disability – A broad condition affecting overall intellectual and adaptive functioning.
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Learning Disability/Difficulty – Specific challenges in one area (e.g., dyslexia, dyscalculia) without affecting general intelligence.
7. How does society help people with Intellectual Disabilities?
Answer:
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Laws protecting rights (e.g., ADA in the USA, Equality Act in the UK).
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Access to education, healthcare, and employment.
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Advocacy groups promoting inclusion and accessibility.
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Reasonable adjustments in school, work, and public spaces.
8. Why is early diagnosis important?
Answer:
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Allows early access to therapy and education support.
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Helps families plan and access resources.
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Improves learning, independence, and quality of life.
9. Can people with Intellectual Disabilities live independently?
Answer:
Yes, many can, especially with mild or moderate disabilities, if they have the right support, training, and accessible housing.
10. What is the role of families and carers?
Answer:
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Providing daily support and encouragement.
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Working with schools, health professionals, and social services.
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Advocating for rights, inclusion, and opportunities.
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