Developmental disabilities are conditions that typically begin during childhood and may affect major areas of daily life. These areas can include learning, communication, mobility, behavior, and independent living skills. Every individual experiences disability differently, which means support should never be based on assumptions. Instead, support should be based on the person’s strengths, needs, preferences, and goals.

As a Direct Support Professional, your role is to provide assistance that helps individuals live safely, meaningfully, and with as much independence as possible. This includes supporting daily routines, promoting community inclusion, and using respectful communication at all times. Throughout this section, you will learn foundational information about developmental disabilities and how that knowledge connects to your responsibilities in community based services. Next, we will review key terms and common diagnoses you may see in documentation and service settings.