Problem 4 - Abnormal Psychology: An Integrative Approach

Question

In the following situations, label each level of intellectual disability as mild, moderate, severe, or profound. Also label the corresponding levels of necessary support: intermittent, limited, extensive, or pervasive. Ledel received an IQ score of 65. He lives at home, goes to school, and is preparing to work when he is through with school. ____________, ____________

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Mild, Intermittent.

Step 1: Understanding the IQ Score

An IQ score ranging from 50-70 typically indicates a mild intellectual disability. Ledel has an IQ score of 65, which places him within this range.

Step 2: Identifying Daily Life Activities

Ledel lives at home, goes to school, and is preparing to work, suggesting that he can handle everyday tasks with some level of independence.

Step 3: Determining the Intellectual Disability Level

Based on the IQ score and Ledel's ability to manage daily life activities, he is classified as having a mild intellectual disability.

Step 4: Assessing the Level of Support Needed

Individuals with mild intellectual disabilities usually require intermittent support, which means assistance on an as-needed basis rather than consistent help.

Key Concepts

IQ score assessment

IQ score assessment is a method used to evaluate cognitive abilities and intellectual potential. It involves standardized tests that result in a numerical score known as an Intelligence Quotient (IQ).
An IQ score of about 100 is considered average. Scores are typically categorized to understand intellectual capabilities better. - **Mild intellectual disability**: IQ scores ranging from 50 to 70 indicate mild intellectual disability, as seen in Ledel's case with a score of 65.
- **Moderate intellectual disability**: Scores between 35 to 49 suggest moderate disability.
- **Severe intellectual disability**: An IQ of 20 to 34 falls into severe disability.
- **Profound intellectual disability**: Scores under 20 indicate profound disability.
Assessing these scores help in planning for support and interventions, ensuring individuals receive appropriate resources to thrive in daily life.

Support levels in intellectual disabilities

Support levels in intellectual disabilities help determine the extent of assistance a person needs. These levels range from minimum to intense support. The goal is to provide appropriate help that aligns with an individual's needs. - **Intermittent support**: This support is provided as-needed. People like Ledel, who have mild intellectual disabilities, often fit here. They can manage independently most of the time but may require occasional guidance.
- **Limited support**: For those needing consistent support during certain activities.
- **Extensive support**: Here, individuals require daily assistance for specific activities.
- **Pervasive support**: This is the most intensive level, with constant support required across all life areas.
Understanding these levels ensures that individuals receive personalized help while promoting independence as much as possible.

Daily life activities and support needs

In daily life, individuals with intellectual disabilities may require various levels of support to manage their activities efficiently. These activities include everyday tasks that most people perform without much thought.
They cover areas such as personal care, social interactions, and work preparation.
- **Personal care**: Activities like bathing, dressing, and feeding need variable levels of intervention based on the person's capabilities.
- **Social interactions**: Engaging with others requires confidence and sometimes guidance. Ledel, for instance, might need help in understanding social cues due to his disability.
- **Work-related skills**: As Ledel prepares to enter the workforce, support might be necessary for developing job skills and improving task understanding.
Tailored support in these areas fosters independence and confidence, providing people with the tools needed to lead fulfilling lives.