Intellectual Disability (Mental Retardation): Focus on Poverty, India, and Use of a Brain-Based Diagnostic Tool

Abstract

Mental Retardation as a label has been replaced by several others including Severe Learning Disability in Britain. Intellectual Disability is the most commonly used one. The present report begins with the distinction between genetic factors and cultural-familial conditions such as maternal health and poverty. Assessment of intellectual ability as a diagnostic tool based on a Brain-Based approach to Intelligence is preceded by a brief description of its incidence in India where poverty is a significant cultural disadvantage. Brain- Based Intelligence Test (BBIT) comprising two major cognitive scales –Planning -Executive functions and Information-Integration is presented in a graphic model. This is followed by report an individual case. Record of test results shows a cognitive profile of Mild Intellectual Disability However a clinical examination of the case suggests a diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Disorder. A case of dual diagnosis.