What defines a developmental disability?

A developmental disability is defined by its impact on various aspects of an individual's functioning, specifically affecting physical, learning, language, or behavioral domains. This definition encompasses a wide spectrum of conditions that typically manifest during the developmental period, often before the age of 22, and have long-lasting effects on daily living and functioning. Conditions such as autism spectrum disorders, cerebral palsy, and intellectual disabilities all fall under this category as they influence how individuals interact with their environment and develop skills throughout their lives.

In contrast, the other definitions provided do not align with the established understanding of developmental disabilities. For instance, a disability that arises exclusively in adulthood or is prevalent only among the elderly would not be classified as a developmental disability because these conditions do not generally onset during the critical developmental period. Similarly, a disability that is reversible with treatment does not fit this category, as developmental disabilities are typically chronic conditions, meaning they are not usually reversible and require ongoing support. Therefore, the selection accurately represents the nature of developmental disabilities in a comprehensive manner.