PSYC 3850 Chapter Notes - Chapter 1: Intellectual Disability, Prepress, Genetic Testing

• School: University of Guelph
• Department: Psychology
• Course: PSYC 3850
• Professor: Carol Anne Hendry

Document Summary

Before 1800, having an intellectual disability was not an urgent problem because those with more severe disabilities were either killed or died of natural causes at an early age. Earliest written reference to intellectual disabilities was in 1552 b. c. , in a time where severe head injuries were not uncommon. Evidence that some surgical procedures were conducted on these skulls to free the evil spirits causing these behaviours. Primitive tribes viewed those with disabilities as an economic drain, as they consumed food/water but did not contribute. In the 6th century political authority determined that cripples should be helped, and distinguished between mental illness and intellectual disparities. Early 20th century reproductive sterilization debate began; fear of disabilities promoted support for methods that would control it (sterilization and isolation) Disciplinary perspectives and contributions: people with intellectual disabilities are similar to those without in their need for love, independence, support and respect, benefit to a greater degree from services like medicine, education, psychology, etc.