Which of the following are examples of intellectual disabilities?

• A. Fragile X Syndrome; Fetal Alcohol Syndrome; Prader-Willi Syndrome; Down Syndrome
• B. Autism; ADHD; Dyslexia; Dyspraxia
• C. Muscular dystrophy; Multiple sclerosis; ALS; Parkinson's
• D. Color blindness; Myopia; Hyperopia; Astigmatism

Answer: (A)

Intellectual disabilities involve substantial limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior that begin during the developmental period. Fragile X syndrome, fetal alcohol syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, and Down syndrome are commonly associated with this pattern, as they typically include cognitive impairment alongside challenges in adaptive skills like communication, daily living, and social participation.

The other groups describe conditions that affect behavior, learning styles, motor coordination, or sensory systems rather than a broad, generalized limitation in intelligence. Autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and dyspraxia can involve difficulties in specific areas, but many individuals with these conditions have average or above-average intelligence and do not meet the standard criteria for an intellectual disability. Muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, ALS, and Parkinson’s are primarily motor or neurological disorders with different primary challenges, not broad intellectual impairment. Color blindness, myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism are visual conditions and do not relate to intellectual functioning.

So the set that best illustrates intellectual disabilities includes Fragile X syndrome, fetal alcohol syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, and Down syndrome.