What are intellectual disabilities?

Intellectual disability, according to American Association of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, refers to substantial limitations of present functioning. It is characterized by 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 academic, leisure, and work.

As you can see, the definition states what and where are the limits of people with disabilities (ID). However, it is much more useful to have a look at their strengths. People with ID do not have to live in institutions segregated from the majority. Watch some of the success stories of young adults with ID here before you proceed in studying this chapter:

Discuss with your colleagues about the videos

• What are the positives of social inclusion of people with ID at the open job market?
• What may be some of the negative aspects related to people with ID working in firms and companies?
• Do you know somebody with ID, does this person works or studies? What may be some of the reasons you do not know anyone with ID?

Homework