Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) Practice Exam

Which of the following levels of intellectual disability is characterized by significant support needs?

1. Mild

2. Moderate

3. Severe

4. Profound

The correct answer is: Severe

The level of intellectual disability characterized by significant support needs is indeed severe intellectual disability. Individuals in this category typically exhibit substantial limitations in both intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. This means they require considerable assistance with daily living skills, communication, and social interactions. In this context, severe intellectual disability often means that individuals may have limited ability to learn academic skills and may not be able to achieve much independence. They generally need structured support, which can include help from caregivers in managing everyday tasks, repetitive teaching strategies, and specialized educational programs that focus on life skills. Other classifications, such as mild and moderate intellectual disabilities, indicate varying levels of support needs. Mild intellectual disability may correspond to individuals who can live independently with minimal assistance and perform daily tasks effectively. Moderate intellectual disability typically requires more guidance but still allows for some independence. Profound intellectual disability involves severe limitations, but the focus is more on the need for extensive support for all aspects of life rather than the "significant" support highlighted for the severe category.