Intellectual Disability

Intellectual disability is a decreased ability to think and learn. It's caused by a problem with how the brain works.

The diagnosis is based on intelligence quotient (IQ) tests and a child's learning problems.

The disability can range from mild to severe. People who have intellectual disability may have a hard time with:

Learning, especially complex tasks.
Language.
Self-care (in cases of severe intellectual disability).

Current as of: August 21, 2019

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & John Pope, MD, MPH - Pediatrics & Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Louis Pellegrino, MD - Developmental Pediatrics

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