How Intellectual Disabilities (ID) Impact Family Structure

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Intellectual disabilities are those that are characterized as present before age 18. People with challenges experience significant limitations in primarily two main areas: 1) intellectual functioning and 2) adaptive behavior. These limitations are expressed in the person's conceptual, social and practical applications in daily living. Some people with intellectual disabilities are mildly affected, making their limitations difficult to recognize without obvious cues. Intellectual disability is diagnosed through the use of standardized tests of intelligence and adaptive behavior. Individuals with intellectual disabilities who are provided appropriate personalized supports over a sustained period generally have improved life outcomes (AAIDD, 2011). In fact, many persons with ID can live independent, productive lives within the community with support from family, friends and agencies that work collaboratively and cohesively within an individualized framework.

An estimated 4.6 million Americans have a diagnosed intellectual or developmental level of disability (Larson, 2000). Current studies may not be comprehensive enough to identify all persons with intellectual disabilities. In spite of many diagnostic advances, many school age children receive a diagnosis of learning disability, developmental delay, behavior disorder, or autism instead of intellectual disability. Intelligence refers to a listing of agreed necessary general mental capability. Intelligence involves the ability to reason, plan, solve problems, think abstractly, comprehend complex ideas, learn quickly, and learn from experience. Intelligence is represented by Intelligent Quotient (IQ) scores obtained from standardized tests given by trained professionals. Intellectual disability is generally diagnosed if an ...