According to the American Association of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, an individual has intellectual disability if he or she meets three criteria:

1. IQ is below 70-75
2. There are significant limitations in two or more adaptive areas (skills that are needed to live, work, and play in the community, such as communication or self-care)
3. The condition manifests itself before the age of 18

It could result from hereditary factors, complications during pregnancy or at the time of childbirth, trauma, illness, or any other neurological disorder. The development of children with intellectual disabilities depends highly on early detection and intervention. For the management of the children, parents and other caregivers must have a complete understanding of the disability and its implications.