PY 101 Chapter 27: Module 27
Document Summary
Intellectual disability (mental retardation)- a condition characterized by significant limitations both in intellectual functioning and in conceptual, social, and practical adaptive skills o o. Occurs in 1% - 3% of the population. Most people have minor deficits and are classified as having mild retardation. Constitute some 90% of all people with intellectual disabilities. Development is typically slower than peers, but they can function quite independently by adulthood and are able to hold jobs and have families of their own o. Language and motor skills lagging behind those of peers. Can hold simple jobs, but need a moderate degree of supervision throughout their lives o. Severe and profound mental retardation- unable to function independently and typically require care for their entire lives. Fetal alcohol syndrome- the most common cause of intellectual disability in newborns, occurring when the mothers uses alcohol during pregnancy. Down syndrome- results when a person is born with 47 chromosomes instead of the usual 46. o.