Intellectual disability, also known as intellectual developmental disorder (IDD), is a term used to describe a condition characterized by significant limitations in both intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior, which covers a range of everyday social and practical skills. This condition begins before the age of 18.

Here are the key aspects of intellectual disability:

• Intellectual Functioning

Refers to the whole ability of the mind, which includes cognitive abilities like learning, reasoning, and problem-solving.

Measured by IQ (Intelligence Quotient) tests, with scores below approximately 70-75 indicating potential intellectual disability.

• Adaptive Behavior

Encompasses a range of skills necessary for day-to-day life, such as communication, social participation, and independent living.

Assessed through standardized tests evaluating conceptual, social, and practical skills.

• Developmental Origin

The onset of intellectual disability occurs during the developmental period, which is defined as before the age of 18.

Causes of Intellectual Disability

Several factors can contribute to intellectual disability, such as:

• Genetic Conditions: Examples include Down syndrome, Fragile X syndrome, and phenylketonuria (PKU).
• Problems During Pregnancy: Factors like maternal infections, malnutrition, or exposure to harmful substances (e.g., alcohol or drugs).
• Complications During Birth: Issues such as oxygen deprivation or premature birth.
• Illness or Injury: Severe infections, traumatic brain injury, or exposure to toxic substances during childhood.

Levels of Intellectual Disability

Intellectual disability can vary in severity, typically categorized into four levels:

• Mild: IQ scores of 50-69. Individuals may achieve basic academic skills and live independently with minimal support.
• Moderate: IQ scores of 35-49. Individuals often require more support in daily living but can engage in simple activities and hold jobs with assistance.
• Severe: IQ scores of 20-34. Individuals need substantial support for daily activities and may have limited communication skills.
• Profound: IQ scores below 20. Individuals require intensive support and supervision for basic activities and often have co-occurring medical conditions.

Diagnosis, Support, and Social Aspects

• Diagnosis: Involves a comprehensive evaluation by healthcare professionals, including assessments of intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior, along with medical history and developmental milestones.
• Support and Interventions: Tailored to the individual's needs, may include special education, speech therapy, occupational therapy, behavioral therapy, and social services. The goal is to enhance quality of life and promote independence to the greatest extent possible.

People with intellectual disabilities have the same rights as others and should be provided with opportunities for education, employment, and community involvement.

Ways to Remove its Stigma

Removing the stigma associated with intellectual disability requires collaborative efforts from several sectors of society. Here are a few ways to help eliminate stigma:

1. Education and Awareness

• Public Awareness Campaigns: Utilize media to educate the public about intellectual disability, emphasizing the abilities, achievements, and contributions of individuals with intellectual disabilities.
• School Programs: Integrate information about intellectual disabilities into school curricula to foster understanding and acceptance from a young age.
• Community Workshops: Offer workshops and training sessions to educate community members, employers, and service providers about intellectual disabilities.

2. Language and Communication

• Use Respectful Language: Promote the use of person-first language (e.g., "person with an intellectual disability" instead of "intellectually disabled person").
• Challenge Inappropriate Terminology: Address and correct the use of derogatory or outdated terms when encountered in conversation or media.

3. Media Representation

• Positive Stories: Highlight positive stories and achievements of individuals with intellectual disabilities in the media.
• Inclusion in Media: Encourage and support the representation of individuals with intellectual disabilities in movies, TV shows, advertisements, and other media.

4. Community Inclusion

• Inclusive Programs: Develop and support inclusive recreational, educational, and social programs that allow individuals with intellectual disabilities to participate alongside their peers.
• Accessibility: Ensure community facilities and events are accessible and accommodating to individuals with intellectual disabilities.

5. Support and Advocacy

• Self-Advocacy: Empower individuals with intellectual disabilities to advocate for themselves and their rights.
• Family and Caregiver Support: Provide resources and support for families and caregivers to understand and advocate for their loved ones.

6. Workplace Inclusion

• Employment Opportunities: Promote hiring practices that provide opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
• Workplace Training: Offer training for employers and coworkers on how to support and include colleagues with intellectual disabilities.

7. Healthcare and Professional Training

• Training for Professionals: Provide training for healthcare professionals, educators, and social workers to ensure they understand and can effectively support individuals with intellectual disabilities.
• Inclusive Practices: Encourage practices that involve individuals with intellectual disabilities in decisions about their care and support.

8. Peer and Social Support

• Peer Support Groups: Establish support groups where individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families can share experiences and advice.
• Mentorship Programs: Create mentorship programs that pair individuals with intellectual disabilities with mentors who can provide guidance and support.

Conclusion

Individuals with intellectual disabilities may also experience related issues such as anxiety, stress, ADHD, Autism, behavioral issues, developmental delays, and learning disabilities. Addressing these co-occurring conditions is essential for a comprehensive support approach. For those seeking professional help, finding the best child psychologist in India or the best psychologist in India can be crucial. Online counselling services, such as those offered by TalktoAngel, can also provide valuable support and guidance.

Limitations in adaptive behavior and intellectual functioning that affect a person's capacity to operate in daily life are characteristics of intellectual disability. This condition, which begins before the age of 18, can stem from various causes, including genetic conditions, complications during pregnancy or birth, and illnesses or injuries. Its severity ranges from mild to profound, each level requiring different types and intensities of support.

The effective diagnosis and management of intellectual disability require a comprehensive evaluation by healthcare professionals, tailored support, and interventions. These may include special education, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and social services designed to enhance the individual's quality of life and promote independence.

Combatting the stigma associated with intellectual disability is essential for fostering an inclusive society. Education and awareness initiatives, such as public awareness campaigns and school programs, can help reshape societal attitudes. Promoting respectful language, highlighting positive media representations, and supporting community inclusion are crucial steps in reducing stigma. Inclusive programs, accessibility in community facilities, and promoting workplace inclusion are also vital in creating environments where individuals with intellectual disabilities can thrive.

By implementing these strategies, society can move toward greater acceptance and inclusion, ultimately improving the quality of life for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Celebrating diversity and fostering an environment of understanding and appreciation is key to reducing stigma and empowering individuals to reach their full potential. Through collective effort, we can build a more inclusive world where everyone, regardless of their abilities, is valued and supported.

Contributed by: Dr (Prof) R K Suri, Clinical Psychologist & Life Coach &  Ms. Swati Yadav, Counselling Psychologist

References

• Buntinx, W. H. E., & Schalock, R. L. (2010). The concept of intellectual disability: An overview of the research and policy landscape. Journal of Policy and Practice in Intellectual Disabilities, 7(2), 60-70. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1741-1130.2010.00261.x