What describes an intellectual disability?

An intellectual disability is primarily defined as a developmental disability characterized by impairments in cognitive functioning and adaptive behavior, which begins during the developmental period. This includes significant limitations in intellectual functioning, typically reflected in an IQ score below a certain threshold, as well as difficulties in areas like communication, self-care, and social skills necessary for daily life.

The emphasis on "developmental" highlights that this condition is not merely a temporary issue or related to a specific phase of life; it manifests early in a person's life and affects their ability to learn and interact with others. It is important to recognize that intellectual disabilities can vary in severity, but the core components are consistently rooted in ongoing challenges with learning and adaptation.

The context surrounding the other options illustrates why they do not fit the definition of an intellectual disability. A temporary condition would suggest that the individual could recover fully without long-term support, which is not the case for intellectual disabilities. A severe mental illness that requires hospitalization does not typically align with the definition of an intellectual disability, as the two are distinct and encompass different areas of mental health. Lastly, diagnosing this condition only in adulthood contradicts the principle that intellectual disabilities are developmental, emphasizing their presence from a young age.