Borderline intellectual functioning, also called borderline mental retardation (in the ICD-8), is a categorization of intelligence wherein a person has below average cognitive ability (generally an IQ of 70–85), but the deficit is not as severe as intellectual disability (below 70).

What does it mean to have borderline intellectual functioning?

Borderline intellectual functioning (BIF) is characterized by heterogeneous cognitive difficulties, with an intelligence quotient (IQ) between 70 and 85 points, and a failure to meet the developmental and sociocultural standards for personal independence and social responsibility required in daily life.

What score is considered borderline mental retardation?

Intellectual disability, formerly called mental retardation (MR) is defined as having an IQ score below 70 whereas an IQ score in the range of 71–84 is termed as “borderline intellectual functioning”.

What is mild mental retardation?

An individual is diagnosed with mild mental retardation if they have an IQ score of 50-69,6 and the majority of cases fall within this category. Individuals with mild mental retardation typically develop social and communication skills adequate for self support, but may need assistance during times of unusual stress.

What causes borderline retardation?

But people with borderline intellectual functioning, or an IQ between 70 and 85, do comprise a vulnerable group. Genetic liability, biological causes such as perinatal difficulties, and epigenetic factors such as socioeconomic status and maternal stress all contribute to borderline intellectual functioning.

Does borderline intellectual functioning qualify someone for disability benefits?

Disability claimants with borderline intellectual functioning (IQs between 71 and 84) can qualify for disability benefits and SSI. The listing that applies to borderline intellectual functioning requires that the claimant have significantly limited academic skills and difficulties with learning.

Is borderline intellectual functioning a learning disability?

Borderline intellectual functioning (BIF) is a condition characterized by an intelligence quotient (IQ) between 70 and 85. BIF children present with cognitive, motor, social, and adaptive limitations that result in learning disabilities and are more likely to develop psychiatric disorders later in life.

Is Autism considered an intellectual disability?

About 1% of the general population is thought to have intellectual disability, and about 10% of individuals with intellectual disability have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or autistic traits. However, a much higher percentage of individuals with ASD have intellectual disability3.

How do you prove intellectual disability?

Diagnosing Intellectual Disability Intellectual functioning is assessed with an exam by a doctor and through standardized testing. While a specific full-scale IQ test score is no longer required for diagnosis, standardized testing is used as part of diagnosing the condition.

What is considered a mild intellectual disability?

Mild intellectual disability having problems with reading and writing. social immaturity. increased difficulty with the responsibilities of marriage or parenting. benefiting from specialized education plans. having an IQ range of 50 to 69.

How do you raise a child with intellectual disability?

Encourage independence in your child. For example, help your child learn daily care skills, such as dressing, feeding him or herself, using the bathroom, and grooming. Give your child chores. Keep her age, attention span, and abilities in mind.

How can we prevent mental retardation in children?

Health and family planning, recognition of at risk situations, genetic counseling, prenatal care, antenatal diagnosis, neonatal screening and pediatric care are just a few of the preventive actions to safe-guard the birth of normal children and secure normal mental development.

Can intellectual disability be cured?

Intellectual disability is not a disease and cannot be cured, however early diagnosis and ongoing interventions can improve adaptive functioning throughout ones childhood and into adulthood.