Learning Disabilities

Question 1

What are the four criteria for “Learning Disability”?

Answer 1

• Impairment of intelligence
• Impairment in adaptive behaviour
• Impairment in social functioning
• Onset < 18 years old

Question 2

What are the three ways in which we can “measure” intelligence?

Answer 2

• Standford-Binet Scale 1905
• Intelligence Quotient (IQ)
• Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS)

Question 3

To be classed as heaving a Learning Difficulty, you may have an IQ of…?

Answer 3

Less than 70 (2 sd’s below the mean of 100)

Question 4

Define “Impairment”

Answer 4

An abnormality in structure / function of something

Question 5

Define “Disability”

Answer 5

The functional consequence of impairment

Question 6

Define “Handicap”

Answer 6

The social consequence of impairment

Question 7

How does the Social Model view Disability?

Answer 7

Seen as a function of society

Question 8

State some infectious causes of Learning Disabilities (TORCH)

Answer 8

• Toxicoplasmosis
• Rubella
• Cytomegalovirus / Congenital syphillis
• Herpes

Question 9

Give an example of a Metabolic Condition which can cause a Learning Disability

Answer 9

Phenylketonuria (PKU), characterised by an absence of Phenylalanine hydroxylase

Question 10

Give an example of a Genetic condition which can cause a Learning Disability

Answer 10

Trisomy 21

Question 11

Give two examples of Toxins which can cause a Learning Disability

Answer 11

Foetal Alcohol Syndrome

Lead Poisoning

Question 12

Describe what “Death by Indifference” might mean

Answer 12

People with learning disabilities are dying with hospital services due to:

• Being neglected by the system
• Institutional discrimination
• Delay of diagnosis / treatment
• Lack of adjustment
• Capacity decisions