Psych: Chapter 15 – Intellectual Disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder

Intellectual disability

A developmental disorder characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior, impacting daily life. It typically manifests before the age of 18 and affects cognitive, social, and practical skills.

Intellectual disability: Criteria

For diagnosing intellectual disability typically include deficits in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior occurring during the developmental period.

Intellectual disability: Characteristics

Common characteristics include difficulty with reasoning, problem-solving, and social skills, as well as challenges in daily living activities.

Sex prevalence: Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21)

Refers to the unequal occurrence of Down Syndrome among genders, typically more common in males than females.

Sex prevalence: Turner Syndrome

Refers to the unequal occurrence of Turner Syndrome among genders, notably affecting females due to a missing or incomplete X chromosome.

Sex prevalence: Klinefelter Syndrome

Refers to the unequal occurrence of Klinefelter Syndrome among genders, primarily affecting males who possess an extra X chromosome.

Sex prevalence: Phenylketonuria

Refers to the unequal occurrence of Phenylketonuria among genders, affecting both males and females equally but may have differing prevalence rates.

Infectious disease influence on intelligence

Refers to how exposure to infectious diseases during critical developmental periods can negatively impact cognitive function and intelligence in individuals.

Alcohol influence on intelligence

Refers to the detrimental effects that prenatal alcohol exposure can have on cognitive development and functioning, potentially leading to conditions such as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders.

Gene-environment interaction

Refers to the interplay between genetic predispositions and environmental factors that influence cognitive development and behavior. This interaction can significantly affect the risk of developing intellectual disabilities.

reaction range

Refers to the concept that genetic potential for intelligence is limited by environmental factors, resulting in a range of possible intellectual functioning based on both heredity and environmental influences.

Levels of prevention for intellectual disabilities: Primary

Strategies aimed at preventing the onset of intellectual disabilities by addressing risk factors before they occur, such as proper prenatal care and health education.

Levels of prevention for intellectual disabilities: Secondary

Strategies implemented after a disability has been identified, focusing on early intervention and treatment to minimize further impairment and enhance development.

Levels of prevention for intellectual disabilities: Tertiary

Strategies aimed at reducing the impact of intellectual disabilities after they have developed, focusing on rehabilitation and support to improve quality of life.

Autism Spectrum Disorder: Symptoms: Dysprosody and echolalia

These symptoms often include atypical speech patterns, such as variations in tone or rhythm, and the repetition of phrases or sounds learned from others.

Autism Spectrum Disorder: Symptoms: Self-injurious behavior

These behaviors can involve actions that result in harm to oneself, such as hitting or scratching, and may stem from frustration or sensory overload.

Autism Spectrum Disorder: Symptoms: Theory of Mind

This refers to the ability to understand that others have thoughts, beliefs, and perspectives different from one's own, often impaired in individuals with autism.

Autism Spectrum Disorder: Treatment – applied behavior analysis  

A therapeutic approach that uses reinforcement strategies to improve socially significant behaviors in individuals with autism, focusing on skill development and reducing maladaptive behaviors.