Learning Diability

Question 1

Define learning disability

Answer 1

Condition of arrested or incomplete development of the mind
Characterised by impairment of skills manifested during the developmental period which contribute to the overall level of intelligence.

Question 2

Diagnostic criteria of learning disability

Answer 2

IQ < 70
Developmental aetiology - <18 years
Deficits in adaptive functioning

Question 3

What is adaptive functioning?

Answer 3

Being able to assimilate whats happening around you and to do the same as rapidly in a changed environment

Question 4

What psychometric assessment methods used?

Answer 4

Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS)

WISC in children

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Question 5

Learning disabilities are psychiatric disorders - True or False?

Answer 5

False

Question 6

How to identify someone with learning disability

Answer 6

Unduly anxiety or other behavioural aspect

Genetic Syndrome

Dysmorphic features

Information of self/carers

History of schooling

Behaviour, communication

Question 7

Severity of LD

Answer 7

Borderline - IQ 70+
Mild - IQ 50-69
Moderate - 35-49
Severe - IQ 20-34
Profound - IQ <20

Question 8

Features of borderline LD

Answer 8

IQ range 70-84

mental age 12 to under 15 years.

Question 9

Features of Mild LD

Answer 9

IQ range 50-69, mental age 9 to under 12 years.
Most Common
Delayed speech - able to use everyday speech
Full independence – Self care, practical & domestic skills
Difficulties in Reading and Writing
Capable of unskilled or semi-skilled work
Problems if Social or Emotional Immaturity
Rarely organic aetiology

Question 10

Features of moderate LD

Answer 10

I.Q. range 35-49, mental age 6 to under 9 years.
Slow with Comprehension and Language
Limited Achievements
Delayed Self care and Motor Skills
Simple Practical Tasks - Often with Supervision
Usually Fully Mobile - Physically Active
Discrepant profiles
Majority Organic Aetiology
Epilepsy & Physical Disability common

Question 11

Features of severe LD

Answer 11

IQ range 20-34, mental age 3 to under 6 years.
Generally more marked impairment than in moderate LD and achievements more restricted.
Epilepsy

Question 12

Features of profound LD

Answer 12

IQ less than 20 (difficult to measure), mental age less than 3 years.

Severe limitation in ability to understand or comply with requests or instructions.

Little or no self-care.

Often severe mobility restriction.

Basic or simple tasks may be acquired.