Discuss how the definition of intellectual disability has changed from 1961–2010.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Ans: The 1961 AAIDD Definition was widely accepted by professionals. Intellectual disability was described as subaverage general intellectual functioning which originates during the developmental period and is associated with impairments in adaptive behavior.

1973 AAIDD Definition: The 1973 definition viewed intellectual disability as significantly subaverage general intellectual functioning existing concurrently with deficits in adaptive behavior, and manifested during the developmental period. Intellectual disability was psychometrically redefined as performance at least two standard deviations below the mean. The definition sought to clarify the relationship between adaptive behavior and intellectual functioning. It attempted to focus greater attention on adaptive behavior and described it as the ability of an individual to meet the standards of personal independence and social responsibility expected of his or her age and cultural group. It extended the concept of the developmental period to age 18 to more accurately reflect when most people complete their education.

1983 AAIDD Definition: In 1983, the AAIDD published another revisions to the definition of intellectual disability. This version suggests using a range of 70–75 when describing the upper limits of intellectual performance on a standardized measure of intelligence rather than a strict cutoff of 70. An IQ score of 70 is intended only as a guideline.

1992 AAIDD Definition: A new definition of intellectual disability was developed. It read: Mental retardation refers to substantial limitations in present functioning. It is characterized by significantly subaverage intellectual functioning, existing concurrently with related limitations in two or more of the following applicable adaptive skill areas: communication, self-care, home living, social skills, community use, self-direction, health and safety, functional academics, leisure, and work. Mental retardation manifests before age 18. The definition is a highly functional definition that portrays intellectual disability as a relationship among three key elements: the individual, the environment, and the type of support required for maximum functioning in various settings. The description of intellectual disability stresses functioning in one’s community rather than just focusing on ethical aspect of the individual such as IQ or adaptive behavior. It assumes that a person’s performance will improve over time when appropriate supports are provided.

2002 AAIDD Definition: Because the 1992 AAIDD definition proved to be fairly controversial and not well accepted by professionals in the field, another definition was written in 2002. The purpose of the 2002 definition was to create a contemporary system of diagnosis, classification, and systems of support for the disability currently known as mental retardation.

Accompanying this definition are five assumptions considered essential when applying the definition:
• Limitations in present functioning must be considered within the context of community environments typical of the individual’s age, peers, and culture.
• Valid assessment considers cultural and linguistic diversity as well as differences in communication and sensory, motor, and behavioral factors.
• Within an individual, limitations often coexist with strengths.
• An important purpose of describing limitations is to develop a profile of needed supports.
• With appropriate personalized supports over a sustained period, the life functioning of the person with mental retardation will generally improve.

2010 AAIDD Definition: The latest AAIDD definition reiterates and strengthens key concepts found in the 2002 definition of intellectual disability. The 2010 definition emphasizes the abilities and assets of individuals with intellectual disability rather than their deficits or limitations. It also retains the emphasis on adaptive behavior while stressing systems of support. The term mental retardation is replaced by intellectual disability. The 2010 definition reflects best practices and
new thinking about classifying individuals with
intellectual disability.