Why shouldn't mental retardation be assessed solely on IQ?

Question

Why shouldn't mental retardation be assessed solely on IQ?

Answer 1

IQ is a part of testing, but the official requirements include delays in other areas.  Usually it's one or all of these areas.

There are more, but these are the "biggies" that sp. ed. teach address on a daily basis.

Communication- ex. They are 12 but understand conversations like a five year old would.

Self-direction - ex.  A ten year old that's can use the toilet independently IF he is reminded to do so.  Otherwise, he wets his pants or cries because he's in pain.

Self-help - ex.  A ten year old that does not pull his sock over his ankle if it's put over his foot.  A four year old that doesn't lift his food to his mouth at lunchtime.

Answer 2

Because many disabilities manifest with communication problems, and most IQ tests depend on communication to judge intelligence.

If someone is mute, a verbal IQ test will not accurately measure their intelligence. If someone has autism, and can't communicate all of their thoughts, then how can their intelligence be measured? IQ is the measure of the ability to learn, not what you can say (because I know a lot of people who talk all the time, and have very little intelligent to say!)

Answer 3

As far as I know, mental retardation is assessed solely on IQ or lack thereof. I believe anything lower than a 65 is considered mentally retarded. Correct me if I am wrong.