Ch. 8 - Intellectual Disabilities

Definition of Intellectual Disability

  • Characterized by:

    • Significant limitations in intellectual functioning.

    • Limitations in adaptive behavior (conceptual, social, practical skills).

    • Onset before age 18.

Classification by IQ Level

  • Mild Intellectual Disability (MID): IQ 50-55 to 70-75

  • Moderate Intellectual Disability (MOID): IQ 35-40 to 50-55

  • Severe Intellectual Disability (SID): IQ 20-25 to 35-40

  • Profound Intellectual Disability (PID): IQ below 20-25

Intensities of Support

  • Intermittent: Limited support needs.

  • Limited: Regular ongoing support.

  • Extensive: Pervasive and intensive support needs.

  • Pervasive: High level of support in multiple settings.

Causes of Intellectual Disabilities

  • Over 750 genetic disorders, including x-linked disorders (e.g., Fragile X).

  • Causes may be biomedical, social, behavioral, or educational.

Learning Characteristics

  • Learning rates of 40%-70% of peers without disabilities.

  • Extensive needs: basic life and communication skills focus.

Social and Emotional Characteristics

  • Similar ranges of social behavior as peers.

  • Increased inappropriate responses; difficulty generalizing.

Physical and Motor Characteristics

  • Delayed walking and talking; shorter stature.

  • Greater lag in development with increased intellectual deficits.

Down Syndrome

  • Most common genetic condition related to intellectual disabilities.

  • 1 in 700 children affected; over 80 clinical characteristics.

Instructional Methods

  • Use concrete experiences; provide data-based teaching.

  • Include choice-making and make activity modifications.

Special Olympics

  • Year-round sports training for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

  • Unique features: no fees, equitable competition divisions, awards for all participants.

Special Olympics Programs

  • Young Athletes: Ages 2-7, motor skills development.

  • Healthy Athletes: Free health exams in various areas (e.g., vision, dental).

  • Unified Sports: Inclusive teams with athletes with and without disabilities.

Safe Participation

  • Be aware of conditions such as atlantoaxial instability in individuals with Down syndrome, and other common conditions (hypotonia, cardiopathy).