[Page 1848]Intellectual disability (ID) is associated with a number of psychological factors that can affect the course of the disability and the individual’s resulting level of functioning. As noted in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, these associated factors may include difficulties with communication, judgment, self-management and care, and emotion regulation. Children and adults with ID may also be faced with stigma that can greatly influence their functioning. It is important to note that each individual with ID may experience these challenges differently as a result of the type of ID, the severity of disability, and the nature of the environments in which they live (e.g., access to supports, caregivers, communities).

The level of communication varies greatly among individuals with ID, depending ...