Intellectual disabilities are neurodevelopmental disorders that begin in childhood and are characterized by
A. a deficit in intellectual functioning, which may manifest itself in academic learning processes, reasoning, problem solving and abstract thinking and
B. a deficit in adaptive functioning that has a significant impact on the individual’s social skills and daily life activities (DSM-V).
Prior to assigning a child or adolescent to a specific Competence Center, a comprehensive and specialized diagnosis is conducted.
The determination of each case is based on the specialist’s diagnosis and is discussed by an independent entity known as the CNI (Commission National d’Inclusion). It is at this stage that the remit of the CDI – or another Center of Competence – is defined.
Mental disability can stem from various causes:
at conception (genetic diseases, chromosomal aberrations – trisomy, fragile X syndrome – blood incompatibility, etc.);
during pregnancy (ionising radiation, viruses, medicines, parasites, alcohol, tobacco, etc.);
at birth (brain damage in newborns, premature birth, etc.)
after birth (infectious, viral or metabolic diseases, poisoning, head injuries, accidents at work or road accidents, drowning, asphyxiation, etc.)
Regardless of the cause, individuals affected by mental disability experience a lasting intellectual impairment. Consequently, they may require appropriate support and guidance to foster their independence, develop their individual abilities, and engage in social interactions
