A Scientific Research Review on the Pattern of Psychopathological Comorbidity in Persons with Intellectual Disabilities

Abstract

Intellectual disability is an alternate term which is currently preferred for the disability historically known as mental retardation. Intellectual disability also called intellectual developmental disorder is a neuro-developmental disorder that typically occurs before the age of 18 years. It is characterized by impaired intellectual and adaptive functioning which is defined by an IQ score below 70 as well as a delay in general daily living skills. According to AAID (2010) intellectual disability is a disability characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning which includes reasoning, learning and problem solving, and adaptive behavior which covers a range of everyday social and practical skills. The prevalence rate of intellectual disability based on overall general population is approximately 1% and prevalence rates vary by age. Prevalence for severe intellectual disability is approximately 6 per 1000. According to National Sample Survey Organization (NSSO) under the department of Statistics Government of India the current prevalence rate of intellectual disability is about 20 (3%) per 1000 from general population. Intellectual disability is a complex type of disability; however the problem is compounded significantly when complicated by emotional and behavior problems. Psychopathology is not only the most common complication associated with intellectual but it also carries the most critical consequences. Persons with intellectual disability do experience with full spectrum of psychiatric disorders like psychosis, depression, anxiety, epilepsy, schizophrenia etc. Persons with intellectual disability seem to be more vulnerable to emotional disorders, behavioral disorders and psychopathology as compared to general population. The present study has been undertaken with a view to understand the pattern of psychopathology present in persons with intellectual disability. An attempt was made to study the diagnostic issues, socio-demographic and clinical variables associated with psychopathology of persons with intellectual disability through a research review.