✨ Why This Lesson Matters

In DSP work, you will see certain terms used in service plans, documentation, and daily communication. Understanding what these terms mean helps you provide consistent support and prevents misunderstanding or assumptions about the individual.

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✨ Key Term: Developmental Disability

A developmental disability is a long term condition that begins before adulthood and may affect major life activities such as learning, communication, mobility, self care, or independent living.

People with developmental disabilities may need different levels of support, and every person’s needs are unique.

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✨ Key Term: Intellectual Disability

An intellectual disability refers to limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive skills. Adaptive skills include practical daily living abilities such as communication, social interaction, decision making, and self care.

A person can have:
A developmental disability without an intellectual disability
An intellectual disability that is also considered a developmental disability
Both at the same time

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✨ Common Diagnoses You May See

Here are examples of diagnoses that may be listed in records or support plans. These diagnoses may impact support needs, but they do not define the person.

Autism spectrum disorder
Cerebral palsy
Down syndrome
Spina bifida
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
Other neurological or genetic conditions

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✨ Important Reminder

A diagnosis explains information about support needs, but it does not determine a person’s value, potential, or ability to grow.

As a DSP, your focus should always be:
What the person can do
What the person prefers
What supports help them succeed
What the support plan requires

Now that you understand key terms and common diagnoses, we will move into how developmental disabilities may impact daily life.