Definition
Although definitions may be important in some contexts, the emphasis should always be on the person’s rights, dignity and individuality and not the ‘label we place on them. However, it is important to know and understand what these words mean, and recognise that the meaning can change depending upon the country and the services you may come into contact with.
Learning disability and learning difficulty are the most commonly used terms in the UK, and are sometimes used interchangeably in the context of health and social care for adults. However, in some settings these terms may have different meanings. The term learning difficulty is used in educational settings in the UK to include those individuals who have ‘specific learning difficulties’, such as dyslexia, but who do not have a significant general impairment of intelligence.
Intellectual disability is defined by the following three characteristics:
- Intelligent quotient ( I.Q.) of between 70-75 or below
- Significant limitations in adaptive behaviours (the ability to adapt and carry on everyday life activities such as self-care, socializing, communicating, etc.)
- The onset of the disability occurs before age 18.
Intelligence refers to general mental capability and involves the ability to reason, plan, solve problems, think abstractly, comprehend complex ideas, learn quickly, and learn from experience.
Causes of Intellectual disability
The most common syndromes associated with intellectual disability are autism, Down syndrome, Fragile X syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).
Common causes occur from genetic conditions ( for example Down syndrome and Fragile X syndrome), problems during pregnancy (a pregnancy of the mother who drinks alcohol while pregnant can result in FASD), problems at the time of birth, health problems such as whooping cough, measles or meningitis and exposure to environmental toxins like lead or mercury.
The impact of having an intellectual disability varies considerably, just as the range of abilities varies considerably among all people. Children may take longer to learn to speak, walk and take care of their personal needs, such as dressing or eating. It may take longer to learn in school.
As adults, some people are able to lead independent lives in the community without paid supports. A small percentage will have serious, lifelong limitations in functioning. However, with early intervention, an appropriate education and supports as an adult, all can lead satisfying lives in the community.
Sometimes intellectual disability is also referred to as developmental disability which is a broader term that includes ASD (autism spectrum disorders), epilepsy, cerebral palsy, developmental delay, fetal alcohol syndrome (or FASD) and other disorders that occur during the developmental period (birth to age 18).
The major differences are in the age of onset, the severity of limitations, and the fact that a person with a developmental disability definition may or may not have a low I.Q. While some people with intellectual disability will also meet the definition of developmental disability, it is estimated that at least half do not meet the requirements for the developmental disability definition.