Which condition is characterized by intellectual and adaptive functioning deficits?

The condition characterized by deficits in both intellectual functioning and adaptive functioning is intellectual disability. This diagnosis includes limitations in cognitive abilities, such as reasoning, problem-solving, and learning, alongside difficulties in adaptive behaviors, which encompass everyday skills needed for personal independence and social responsibility.

Intellectual disability is defined specifically by these two dimensions—intellectual functioning typically measured by IQ tests and adaptive behavior assessments. This dual focus helps to capture the complexity of the challenges faced by individuals with this condition, making the diagnosis relevant for both clinical and educational contexts.

While autism spectrum disorder can involve challenges in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior, not everyone with autism meets the criteria for an intellectual disability, as many individuals on the spectrum may have average or above-average intellectual abilities. Down syndrome, while associated with intellectual disability, is a specific genetic condition that results in a distinct set of physical and cognitive characteristics, rather than purely a classification based on functioning deficits. Learning disabilities, on the other hand, are specific to difficulties in certain areas of learning and do not encompass broad intellectual and adaptive deficits.