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The secret of intellectual disability: How does it affect children's lives?
Intellectual disability (ID) refers to a pervasive neurodevelopmental disorder that usually first becomes apparent in childhood and is associated with significant impairments in intellectual and adaptive functioning. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), intellectual disability is characterized by an intelligence quotient (IQ) below 70 and deficits in at least two adaptive behaviors that affect daily living. These adaptive behaviors include social, developmental, and practical skills, which are basic abilities that people learn in order to perform tasks in their daily lives. For many families, intellectual disability not only affects the child's quality of life, but also has a profound impact on the entire family.
Intellectual disability affects approximately 2-3% of the population, of which 75-90% have mild intellectual disability.
Early Signs and Symptoms of Intellectual Disability
Intellectual disability is most evident in childhood and typically manifests as deficits in mental abilities, social skills, and core activities of daily living. Mild intellectual disability may not become apparent until school years, and many children will lag behind in their performance. Therefore, it is particularly important to detect these signs early. Some early signs may include:
- Delays in reaching milestones in motor skill development
- Slow or persistent difficulty in language learning
- Deficiencies in self-care skills, such as dressing, bathing, etc.
- Behavioral and social problems
- Incest at school
Comorbidity: Autism and Intellectual Disability
Intellectual disability shares some clinical features with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which can make diagnosis confusing. Many people with intellectual disability who have ASD may receive inappropriate treatment. According to research, about 30% of people with autism also have intellectual disabilities.
Clearly distinguishing intellectual disability from autism helps clinical professionals provide appropriate treatment.
Causes of Intellectual Disability
There are many causes of intellectual disability. In children, the cause of approximately one-third to half of cases of intellectual disability is unknown. Sexual relationships, genetic abnormalities, problems during pregnancy, or factors in the environment in which the baby is born can affect intellectual development.
Criteria for diagnosing intellectual disability
According to the definition of the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, a diagnosis of intellectual disability requires meeting three criteria, including significant limitations in intellectual ability, limitations in adaptive behavior in multiple settings, and symptoms that develop during childhood or adolescence. That is obvious evidence.
Management and Support
Although intellectual disability is not considered a disease, appropriate support and teaching can help individuals learn a variety of skills. A variety of support services for people with intellectual disabilities are provided by various organizations around the world, including day rehabilitation programs, employment counseling, and programs to help people live independently. The ultimate goal is to help these individuals achieve independent living.
Through life training, patients with intellectual disabilities can learn many new skills in the later stage, which is an important way to adapt to society.
In today's society, understanding and support for intellectual disabilities is vital because every child's potential is limitless. Can we accept and support these children in a more inclusive way and help them better integrate into society?
