How is intellectual disability typically assessed?

The assessment of intellectual disability is primarily based on the score from IQ tests, which are designed to measure cognitive abilities and intellectual functioning. These tests evaluate a range of cognitive skills, including reasoning, problem-solving, and understanding, which are critical for identifying individuals who may have an intellectual disability.

IQ tests provide a standardized method for measuring intelligence, allowing practitioners to compare an individual’s score to normative data. An IQ score significantly below the average range, typically defined as below 70, can indicate an intellectual disability when combined with an assessment of adaptive functioning, which refers to how well a person manages everyday tasks and activities.

While behavioral analysis, physical examinations, and developmental milestones can provide useful insights into an individual's overall functioning and can complement the assessment process, the IQ score is a central component of diagnosing intellectual disability. It specifically addresses the cognitive impairments that characterize the condition.

In summary, the focus on IQ tests in assessment aligns with established diagnostic criteria for intellectual disabilities, making this option the most accurate choice for understanding how intellectual disability is determined.