The DSM-5 replaced older, stigmatized labels with the diagnosis of intellectual disability. The older terminology was originally intended to be neutral but was changed because it became inaccurate and demeaning to individuals and their families.

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Intellectual disability is a diagnosis characterized by an IQ score below 70 and significant delays in adaptive and social functioning.

Intellectual Disability

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology (2nd ed.). OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/1-introduction

OpenStax Psychology (2nd ed.) Textbook

Shift to Intellectual Disability Terminology

Learning disabilities are distinct from intellectual disabilities. While intellectual disabilities are considered global developmental or intellectual impairments affecting overall cognitive functioning, learning disabilities are specific neurological impairments that affect particular cognitive functions, such as language or reading.

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