Foundations of Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities

Most DSPs enter the field with little foundational knowledge about the population they serve — which leads to fear-based responses, missed cues, and lower service quality. This course covers the major IDD diagnoses (intellectual disability, autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy), how adaptive behavior is assessed, and the language and supports that affirm dignity. **What you will learn:** • Understand common IDD diagnoses and co-occurring conditions • Recognize the difference between intellectual disability and mental illness • Understand adaptive behavior and how it is assessed • Identify supports across the spectrum of need • Apply person-first and identity-first language appropriately