Write a short note on describe the criteria used to diagnose mental retardation.

The diagnosis of mental retardation, now referred to as intellectual disability in current diagnostic terminology (DSM-5), involves assessing an individual's intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviors. The criteria for diagnosing intellectual disability encompass both cognitive and functional domains and are based on standardized assessment measures and clinical evaluation. Here are the key criteria used to diagnose intellectual disability:

1. Intellectual Functioning (IQ Score):

   • Intellectual functioning is assessed using standardized intelligence tests, such as the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) or the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales. The individual's IQ score is a primary determinant in the diagnosis of intellectual disability.
   • The DSM-5 specifies that an IQ score of approximately two standard deviations below the population mean (around 70 or below) is indicative of significant intellectual impairment.

2. Adaptive Functioning (Adaptive Behavior):

   • Adaptive functioning refers to an individual's ability to effectively cope with everyday life demands and to independently engage in activities necessary for personal and social functioning.
   • Adaptive behavior is assessed across various domains, including conceptual skills (e.g., communication, self-direction), social skills (e.g., interpersonal relationships, social responsibility), and practical skills (e.g., activities of daily living, functional academics).
   • Impairments in adaptive functioning are determined through clinical observation, caregiver reports, and standardized assessment tools, such as the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales or the Adaptive Behavior Assessment System.

3. Onset during Developmental Period:

   • Intellectual disability is characterized by impairments in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior that manifest during the developmental period, typically before age 18.
   • The onset of intellectual impairment and associated functional deficits must be evident during childhood or adolescence to meet the diagnostic criteria for intellectual disability.

4. Severity of Impairment:

   • Intellectual disability is categorized into different levels of severity based on the individual's level of intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior.
   • Severity levels may include mild, moderate, severe, or profound intellectual disability, with varying degrees of impairment in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior.

In summary, the diagnosis of intellectual disability involves assessing intellectual functioning, adaptive behavior, onset during the developmental period, and severity of impairment. Clinicians use standardized assessment measures, clinical observation, and caregiver reports to evaluate these criteria and determine the presence and severity of intellectual disability in an individual.