November will mark the beginning of my tenth year working in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities. Throughout my thirties, I dedicated myself in various roles to the care of individuals who are often referred to by the general public as “mentally retarded.” In fact, when using the term “developmentally disabled” to describe those I serve, it usually leads to confusion and necessitates a more extensive conversation. Outside of the field, most people are unfamiliar with this terminology, and I don’t blame them.
Before I entered this field, I too was unaware of these distinctions. I knew only one person with such a condition, and while I treated them with the same respect I would extend to anyone else, I didn’t delve much into understanding the terminology. “Retardation” was the only word I had heard in reference to them.
How can we bring about change? Employees in this field can play a pivotal role in bridging the gap in understanding regarding individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It is the responsibility of those familiar with this group to not only educate the general public about the nature of the people they serve (which is of utmost importance) but also to advocate for more appropriate terminology. The use of the term “mental retardation” has garnered negative connotations, has been deemed offensive by many, and often leads to misconceptions about the disorder and the individuals affected by it (Federal Register).
According to the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD), “Intellectual disability is characterized by significant limitations in both intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior, encompassing various everyday social and practical skills” (emphasis in original). This definition aligns with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5; American Psychiatric Association [APA], 2013), which serves as the authoritative manual in this field.
As per the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA):
“Intellectual disability is characterized by:
- Significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem-solving).
- Significant limitations in adaptive behavior (i.e., conceptual, social, and practical skills in everyday life).
- Onset in childhood (before the age of 18 years; American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities [AAIDD, 2013]).”
Those of us working in this field are ideally positioned to enlighten those less acquainted with this population, fostering a deeper understanding.
How frequently have you encountered someone working in this field? And if you have, how often have they taken the opportunity to acquaint you with a broader understanding of the people under their care?
Sources:
- American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD)
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
- Federal Register, The Daily Journal of the United States Government Federal Register