Q1. What are Intellectual Disabilities according to DSM-5?
A: Intellectual disabilities are conditions where a person has below-average intellectual functioning and difficulties with adaptive skills (thinking, social, and practical skills) that begin before the age of 18–22.
Q2. What are the three main areas affected?
A:
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Conceptual skills – e.g., reading, writing, math, understanding time, problem-solving.
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Social skills – e.g., communicating, making friends, understanding social rules.
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Practical skills – e.g., daily living tasks, personal care, money handling, safety.
Q3. What causes Intellectual Disabilities?
A: Causes can include:
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Genetic conditions (e.g., Down syndrome, Fragile X syndrome)
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Problems during pregnancy (e.g., infections, poor nutrition, alcohol or drug exposure)
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Problems during birth (e.g., lack of oxygen)
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Illness or injury in early childhood (e.g., head injury, severe malnutrition, infections)
Q4. How are Intellectual Disabilities diagnosed in DSM-5?
A: A diagnosis involves:
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IQ testing (usually below 70–75)
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Assessment of adaptive functioning in the three skill areas
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Onset before adulthood (before age 18–22)
Q5. What are the levels of severity in DSM-5?
A:
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Mild – May learn academic skills up to about 6th grade level; can live independently with some support.
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Moderate – May learn basic reading/writing; needs daily support.
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Severe – Limited communication skills; needs significant daily support.
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Profound – Requires 24-hour care and support.
Q6. What support may be needed?
A:
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Special education and tailored learning
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Life skills training
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Speech and language therapy
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Occupational therapy
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Support with employment and housing
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Health and social care services
Q7. Can people with Intellectual Disabilities live fulfilling lives?
A: Yes — with the right support, people can work, form relationships, enjoy hobbies, and be active members of their community.
Q8. Why is early identification important?
A: Early identification allows access to learning support, therapies, and family guidance that can improve independence and quality of life.
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