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Learning Disability
Background
Learning Disability: Intellectual Disability
Learning disability (formerly known as mental handicap) and referred to increasingly as intellectual disability covers a wide range of intellectual impairments.
Mild learning disability (roughly equivalent to an IQ of 50 to 70) is analogous to the educational term 'moderate learning difficulties'. It is usually caused by a combination of restricted learning and social opportunities plus a high rate of low-average intellectual ability and learning disability in close relatives. Moderate-to-profound learning disability (roughly equivalent to an IQ below 50) is analogous to the educational term 'severe learning difficulties'. It usually has a specific biological cause. However, there are exceptions either way.