Which term is non-stigmatizing for the condition previously labeled 'mental retardation'?

Which term is non-stigmatizing for the condition previously labeled 'mental retardation'?

• A. Mental retardation
• B. Intellectual Disability
• C. Developmental Delay
• D. Cognitive Impairment

Answer: (B)

The key idea here is using respectful, current terminology for a condition that involves significant limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. The accepted label is intellectual disability, which is standard in professional practice and DSM-5. It conveys the core features—limitations in intellectual ability and adaptive skills—that begin before age 18, and it supports clear planning for supports and services. This term also avoids the stigma associated with older language, fostering dignity and inclusion. Mental retardation is outdated and stigmatizing due to historical attitudes and language, so it’s not the preferred term in modern practice. Developmental delay is typically used for younger children to signal that a child is not meeting developmental milestones and may change over time; it does not accurately describe a long-term disability category. Cognitive impairment is a broader descriptor of diminished cognitive function and is not the formal diagnosis used for the developmental disability label, so it doesn’t provide the precise, clinically useful terminology sought here. Therefore, using intellectual disability is the best choice because it is accurate, non-stigmatizing, and aligns with current diagnostic and practice standards.

The key idea here is using respectful, current terminology for a condition that involves significant limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. The accepted label is intellectual disability, which is standard in professional practice and DSM-5. It conveys the core features—limitations in intellectual ability and adaptive skills—that begin before age 18, and it supports clear planning for supports and services. This term also avoids the stigma associated with older language, fostering dignity and inclusion.

Mental retardation is outdated and stigmatizing due to historical attitudes and language, so it’s not the preferred term in modern practice. Developmental delay is typically used for younger children to signal that a child is not meeting developmental milestones and may change over time; it does not accurately describe a long-term disability category. Cognitive impairment is a broader descriptor of diminished cognitive function and is not the formal diagnosis used for the developmental disability label, so it doesn’t provide the precise, clinically useful terminology sought here.

Therefore, using intellectual disability is the best choice because it is accurate, non-stigmatizing, and aligns with current diagnostic and practice standards.