Which of the following is a criterion for diagnosing intellectual disability according to DSM-IV TR?

Which of the following is a criterion for diagnosing intellectual disability according to DSM-IV TR?

• A. A score of IQ above 80
• B. Significant deficits in academic performance
• C. Deficits in adaptive functioning in two areas
• D. Normal social skills

Answer: (C)

The correct response is based on the criteria outlined in DSM-IV-TR for diagnosing intellectual disability. One of the key components is the presence of deficits in adaptive functioning, which is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of an individual's ability to cope with everyday demands. Specifically, these deficits must occur in two or more areas of adaptive functioning, which may include communication, social skills, self-care, home living, and functional academics. This criterion emphasizes that intellectual disability is not solely defined by below-average IQ scores but also significantly impacts a person's ability to function effectively in various life scenarios. Thus, the evaluation considers multiple dimensions of functioning, highlighting the importance of both cognitive capacity and practical skills in the diagnosis. In contrast to this correct answer, a score of IQ above 80 does not align with the diagnostic criteria, as intellectual disability is typically indicated by an IQ score of approximately 70 or below. Significant deficits in academic performance could suggest difficulties but are not sufficient alone for a diagnosis. Lastly, having normal social skills does not fit the criteria since it's the deficit in those skills that would be of significance in the context of adaptive functioning assessments.

The correct response is based on the criteria outlined in DSM-IV-TR for diagnosing intellectual disability. One of the key components is the presence of deficits in adaptive functioning, which is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of an individual's ability to cope with everyday demands. Specifically, these deficits must occur in two or more areas of adaptive functioning, which may include communication, social skills, self-care, home living, and functional academics.

This criterion emphasizes that intellectual disability is not solely defined by below-average IQ scores but also significantly impacts a person's ability to function effectively in various life scenarios. Thus, the evaluation considers multiple dimensions of functioning, highlighting the importance of both cognitive capacity and practical skills in the diagnosis.

In contrast to this correct answer, a score of IQ above 80 does not align with the diagnostic criteria, as intellectual disability is typically indicated by an IQ score of approximately 70 or below. Significant deficits in academic performance could suggest difficulties but are not sufficient alone for a diagnosis. Lastly, having normal social skills does not fit the criteria since it's the deficit in those skills that would be of significance in the context of adaptive functioning assessments.