'Intelligence' Issues? Understanding and Respecting Borderline Intellectual Functioning.

Modern mental health science analyzes individuals' personalities and emotional states through comprehensive psychological assessments, measuring their intelligence levels through intelligence quotient (IQ) tests. However, this can lead to biases and misunderstandings about intelligence for many. Yet, as experience in the field of psychiatry grows, there is a clearer understanding of the impact of intelligence quotient on one's life.

 

Taking a broader perspective, individuals with borderline intellectual functioning also possess their own strengths and abilities.

 

The Wechsler Intelligence Test assesses intelligence across five areas: language comprehension, memory, visual-spatial intelligence, fluid intelligence, and processing speed. The resulting IQ is a relative value, with 100 as the average for each age group. An IQ of 70 or below is diagnosed as intellectual disability, while an IQ between 70 and 84 falls into the category of borderline intellectual functioning, encompassing 13.6% of the total population.

 

Unlike intellectual disability, borderline intellectual functioning may not manifest clear developmental delays in early childhood. While there may be little difference in learning abilities up to elementary school, decreased academic performance and a loss of interest in learning become apparent in later grades.

 

Individuals with borderline intellectual functioning may struggle with problem-solving abilities and face challenges in encountering new tasks. However, a positive aspect is the possibility of early intervention. While intelligence quotient has a significant innate aspect, the developing brain in early childhood can be further enhanced through specialized training and learning.

 

Therefore, early intervention and support are crucial for individuals diagnosed with borderline intellectual functioning. Cognitive therapies and developmental support can aid their progress. If there are difficulties in understanding learning materials, considering cognitive assessments is advisable. Additionally, it is essential to understand and support individuals in realizing that, even later in life, they can function well in areas aligned with their interests.

 

Taking a broader perspective, individuals with borderline intellectual functioning also possess their own strengths and abilities. Hoping for their social integration and support through early intervention and understanding, we aspire to become a society that respects and understands the diversity of intelligence.