Question

The DSM-5 now uses ___ as a diagnostic label for what was once referred to as mental retardation. a. autism and developmental disabilities b. lowered intelligence c. intellectual disability d. cognitive disruption

Short answer

c. intellectual disability

Step-by-step solution

Choose the correct option

The question asks for which term DSM-5 now uses as a diagnostic label for what was once referred to as mental retardation. By going through the options, option 'c. intellectual disability' is the correct option. DSM-5 replaced 'mental retardation' with 'intellectual disability'.

Key concepts

Understanding Intellectual Disability

Intellectual disability is a term used to describe a condition characterized by significant limitations both in intellectual functioning and in adaptive behavior. This condition originates before the age of 18. It's important to move away from outdated terminology like 'mental retardation', which has negative connotations, and instead use ‘intellectual disability’ as recognized by the DSM-5.

Intellectual disability affects a person’s ability to reason, learn, problem-solve, and adapt to everyday life situations. This can impact areas such as communication, self-care, and social skills.

Key aspects include:

• Intellectual functioning: This refers to an individual's ability to learn, reason, and solve problems. It is typically measured by IQ tests, where scores around 70 or below are often indicative of intellectual disability.
• Adaptive behavior: This involves conceptual, social, and practical skills that people have learned in order to function in their everyday lives. These skills are typically assessed through interviews, observations, and standardized tests.

Diagnostic Criteria in DSM-5

The DSM-5, which stands for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, establishes criteria for diagnosing intellectual disability. This manual is widely used by clinicians and researchers to diagnose and classify mental health disorders.

For intellectual disability, the DSM-5 outlines specific criteria that must be met, highlighting the importance of comprehensive assessment, rather than solely relying on IQ scores.

Here are the essential diagnostic criteria:

• Deficits in intellectual functions: Evidence of limitations in intellectual functions such as reasoning, problem-solving, planning, abstract thinking, and learning. This is typically determined through clinical assessment and standardized testing.
• Deficits in adaptive functioning: These must result in failure to meet developmental and socio-cultural standards. This impacts the individual’s ability to perform daily tasks in one or more aspects of daily life, such as communication and personal independence.
• Onset during the developmental period: The intellectual and adaptive deficits must originate during childhood or adolescence to distinguish them from other conditions that may arise in adulthood.

Recognizing Mental Health Disorders

Mental health disorders encompass a wide range of conditions that affect mood, thinking, and behavior. Understanding these disorders is crucial as it impacts how individuals can receive appropriate treatment and support.

Mental health disorders can range from conditions like anxiety and depression to more complex conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Each disorder can vary in severity and affects individuals differently.

Important factors to consider:

• Symptoms: These can include emotional symptoms like sadness or euphoria, cognitive symptoms such as confusion, and physical symptoms like changes in sleep or appetite.
• Diagnosis: Frequency, intensity, and duration of symptoms play a critical role in diagnosis. Understanding the pattern and impact of these symptoms on daily life is essential.
• Treatment: Treatment often involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and support, tailored to the individual's needs. Early intervention can improve outcomes significantly.

Understanding and recognizing the signs of mental health disorders is the first step toward obtaining help and managing the condition effectively.