Learning Difficulties Flashcards
What is learning disability?
a condition of arrested or incomplete development of the mind
How do LD’s usually manifest themselves?
impairment of skills
decreased intelligence, cognitive, motor and social abilities
What is the IQ criteria for a learning disability?
<70
What is the average IQ of the general population?
100
What percentage of the population have an IQ of less than 70?
3%
What is responsible for the decline in IQ in developed countries?
youth culture, less books and conversation, computer games, general education
Is dyslexia a learning disability?
No
How can you tell if someone has a learning disability?
may be apparent - genetics/dysmorphic features
information from carers
history of special schooling
behaviour, communication
What is the IQ range for a mild Learning disability?
50-69
What is the IQ range for a moderate learning disability?
35-49
What is the IQ range for a severe learning disability?
20-34
What is the IQ range for a profound learning disability?
<20
What is the IQ range for a borderline learning disability?
70+
What is seen in mild LD?
delayed speech
full independence
difficulties in reading and writing
capable of unskilled or semi-skilled work
problems if social or emotional immaturity
What is seen in moderate LD?
Slow with comprehension and language limited achievements delayed self care and motor skills usually fully mobile majority organic aetiology
What is seen in profound LD?
IQ less than 20
sever limitation in ability to understand or comply with requests
little/no self-care
severe mobility restriction
What is seen in severe LD?
IW range 20-34
marked impairment more than moderate LD and achievements more restricted
epilepsy
What are common genetic syndromes associated with learning deficiencies
downs syndrome
pats syndrome - trisomy 13
edwards syndrome - trisomy 18
What are some chromosomal abnormalities associated with learning difficulties?
Prader-Willi - over eating, self-injury
Angelman - ataxia
cri du chat - microcephaly
williams
What causes fragile X syndrome?
faulty FMR1 gene
What is the genotype of Turners syndrome?
45 XO
What is genotype in Klinefelters?
46 XXY
What maternal infections can cause learning difficulty?
rubella
CMV
toxoplasmosis
What maternal factors other than infection can cause LD?
alcohol
drugs
poor diet
What newborn complications can predispose to LD?
respiratory distress hyperbilirubinaemia hypoglycaemia extreme prematurity CNS infections congenital hypothyroidism cerebral palsies
Why are people with LDs more prone to psychiatric illnesses?
organic vulnerability - “brain damage”
social deprivation
life events
learned helplessness
how can LD’s be managed?
therapeutic - e.g. psychiatric problems
education - school support, parents and carers
social unmet needs and support network
communication - hearing aids, pictorial, makaton
What pharmacological treatment is available in LD?
epilepsy and constipation treatments
antipsychotics
antidepressants
anticonvulsants
What is the triad of autistic spectrum symptoms?
abnormal social interaction
communication impairment
rigid/restricted or repetitive behaviour, interests and activities
