Which of the following statements regarding patients with intellectual disabilities is correct?

• A. They may have limitations in both intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior.
• B. Intellectual disabilities can be cured with appropriate medication.
• C. Intellectual disabilities are always caused by genetic factors.
• D. Most individuals with intellectual disabilities are unable to learn new skills.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definition of intellectual disabilities. Intellectual disabilities involve significant limitations in both intellectual functioning (such as reasoning, learning, and problem-solving) and adaptive behavior (which includes social and practical skills needed for daily life).
2. Step 2: Evaluate the statement about medication curing intellectual disabilities. Intellectual disabilities are developmental and typically lifelong conditions; there is currently no medication that cures them, although some associated symptoms or conditions might be managed medically.
3. Step 3: Consider the causes of intellectual disabilities. While genetic factors can contribute, intellectual disabilities can also result from environmental factors, prenatal exposure, birth complications, or illnesses, so they are not always caused by genetics alone.
4. Step 4: Assess the learning abilities of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Many individuals with intellectual disabilities can learn new skills, especially with appropriate support and education tailored to their needs, so the statement that most are unable to learn new skills is incorrect.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct statement is the one recognizing limitations in both intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior, as this aligns with the clinical definition and understanding of intellectual disabilities.