Vers une meilleure compréhension du trouble du développement intellectuel léger idiopathique : des symptômes aux modalités d’accompagnement

Introduction

The present literature review aims to list as exhaustively as possible all the research studies carried out on MID (1) in terms of assessment and diagnosis, (2) in terms of clinical presentation and (3) from an interventional point of view. The objective is to provide keys to understand this pathology to the various health professionals in medical and paramedical fields.

Literature findings

Despite its high prevalence, there are few scientific studies about mild intellectual disability (MID), which causes cognitive deficits. MID is thought to affect about 1–2% of the population in France, and in nearly 80% of cases it is called idiopathic, the cause being unknown (INSERM, 2016).

Discussion

Numerous studies have proposed interventional programs with specific recommendations for this population. Definite conclusions of the reviewed literature is complicated by important heterogeneity in the methodologies used and reported results, unclear clinical presentation of MID, and methodological difficulties in groups constitution and in objective evaluation of programs effects.

Conclusion

The objective is now to summarize these methodological requirements by proposing adaptations that take into account the cognitive and behavioral profile of individuals.