What signifies an intellectual disability?

An intellectual disability is characterized primarily by an impaired ability to learn and process information, which affects an individual's intellectual functioning. This impairment is typically measured through standard assessments of IQ, revealing significantly below-average cognitive ability that impacts daily life, adaptive functioning, and the capacity to participate fully in designated activities or tasks.

While physical disabilities, emotional instability, and learning difficulties without impairment can be associated with various conditions or challenges an individual may face, they do not encompass the defining criteria of intellectual disability. Physical disabilities may limit one's physical capabilities but do not necessarily correlate with intellectual functioning. Emotional instability can affect an individual's behavior and mood but does not inherently indicate a cognitive impairment. Similarly, learning difficulties without impairment refer to struggles in specific areas of learning while being within the normal range of cognitive ability, which does not align with the definition of an intellectual disability. Therefore, the correct answer accurately reflects the core component of assessing and defining intellectual disability.