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Intellectual Disability

Intellectual Disability

Intellectual disability (or ID) is a term used when a person has certain limitations in cognitive functioning and skills, including conceptual, social and practical skills, such as language, social and self-care skills. These limitations can cause a person to develop and learn more slowly or differently than a typically developing person. Intellectual disability can happen any time before a person turns 22 years old, even before birth.

intellectual disability rights
Intellectual disability is the most common developmental disability. According to the American Association of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, an individual has intellectual disability if he or she meets three criteria:
1. IQ is below 70.
2. There are significant limitations in adaptive behavior in one or more of the following areas: conceptual, social or practical skills (skills that are needed to live, work, and play in the community).
3. The condition manifests itself before the age of 22.

What are some of the symptoms of Intellectual Disability?

common intellectual disabilities

Delayed or slowed learning of any kind (such as in school or from real-life experiences).

autism literacy strategies

Slowed reading speed.

support strategies for autism

Difficulties with reasoning and logic.

intellectual disability and mental health

Problems with judgment and critical thinking.

adults with intellectual disabilities

Trouble using problem-solving and planning abilities.

intellectual disability adults symptoms

Distractibility and difficulty focusing.

intellectual disability signs and symptoms

Slower learning of toilet training and self-care activities (bathing, dressing, etc.).

intellectual disability social security

Slower social development.

intellectual disability with psychosis

Little or no fear or apprehension of new people (lack of “stranger danger” behaviors).

help for intellectual disability

Needing help from parental figures or other caregivers with basic daily activities (bathing, using the bathroom, etc.) past the expected age.

intellectual disability and schizophrenia

Difficulty learning how to do chores or other common tasks.

intellectual disability money information

Trouble understanding concepts like time management or money

intellectual disability in health and social care

Trouble understanding social boundaries.

A child with an intellectual disability can do well in school but is likely to need the individualized help that’s available as special education and related services. The level of help and support that’s needed will depend upon the degree of intellectual disability involved.Teach the student life skills such as daily living, social skills, and occupational awareness and exploration, as appropriate. Involve the student in group activities or clubs. Work together with the student’s parents and other school personnel to create and implement an IEP tailored to meet the student’s needs. Many children with  intellectual disabilities need help with adaptive skills, which are skills needed to live, work, and play in the community. Teachers and parents can help a child work on these skills at both school and home.
  • Communicating with others
  • Taking care of personal needs (dressing, bathing, going to the bathroom)
  • Health and safety
  • Home living (helping to set the table, cleaning the house, or cooking dinner)
  • Social skills (manners, knowing the rules of conversation, getting along in a group, playing a game)
  • Reading, writing, and basic math
  • As they get older, skills that will help them in the workplace
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