child with an IQ of 55 is classified as having?& x20; - AIIMS M.Sc. Nsg Entrance exam-2026

AIIMS M.Sc. Nsg Entrance exam-2026

Psychology

Easy

Appeared in: AIIMS M.Sc. Nsg Entrance exam-2026

Explanation

An IQ score of 55 falls within the standard range for Mild Intellectual Disability.
According to diagnostic criteria (like DSM-5), the IQ range for mild intellectual disability is typically considered to be from 50–55 to approximately 70.
This is the most common level of intellectual disability, comprising about 85% of all cases.
Individuals in this category can often learn academic skills to a sixth-grade level and can usually achieve a degree of social and vocational independence with support.

Option A: This is incorrect. Severe intellectual disability corresponds to a much lower IQ range, typically 20-34.
Option B: This is incorrect. Moderate intellectual disability is associated with an IQ range of approximately 35-49.
Option C: This is incorrect. Profound intellectual disability is the most severe level, associated with an IQ score below 20.

Visual 1: Chart: A table illustrating the different levels of intellectual disability (Mild, Moderate, Severe, Profound) with their corresponding IQ score ranges and typical adaptive functioning capabilities. This provides a quick reference for classification.
Visual 2: Diagram: A bell curve of normal IQ distribution, highlighting the sections that correspond to borderline, mild, moderate, severe, and profound intellectual disability. This helps visualize where these classifications fall relative to the general population.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Classification of Intellectual Disability based on IQ scores as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Accurate classification of intellectual disability is crucial for nurses and healthcare teams to develop appropriate and individualized care plans, including educational support, vocational training, and community living arrangements.
Nurses play a key role in assessing adaptive functioning (in addition to intellectual functioning), supporting families through the diagnostic process, and advocating for resources tailored to the individual's level of need.
What if the child's IQ was 45? In that case, the classification would change to Moderate Intellectual Disability, requiring a higher level of support for daily living, academic skills (typically up to a 2nd-grade level), and vocational training.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that requires knowledge of standardized classifications.
First, identify the key piece of data in the question stem: the IQ score of 55.
Next, recall the standard classification system for intellectual disability, which is categorized by IQ ranges.
Compare the given IQ score (55) to the ranges for each level: Mild (50-70), Moderate (35-49), Severe (20-34), and Profound (below 20).
Select the option that contains the range where the IQ score of 55 falls.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Classification of Intellectual Disability based on IQ scores.
Stem keywords: child, IQ of 55, classified
Lead-in keywords: BEST, MOST RELEVANT CLUE
Clinical cues: Age/sex group narrows the expected diagnosis, intervention, or normal reference range.
Negative lead-in flag: false

Qv80Hg2PoaCv_mELuavQ2O