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Developmental Disabilities - What Are Developmental Disabilities?

By , About.com Guide

Definition: Developmental disabilities include a complex group of disorders that cause physical impairments, intellectual disabilities, speech disorders, and medical conditions. Developmental disabilities are usually present and diagnosed at birth. Some developmental disorders such as autism, however, may not be easily identified until ages three to six.

Developmental disabilities may range from mild to severe. About two percent of the population are affected by severe developmental disabilities. Some of the more common developmental disabilities include:

Also Known As: developmental disorders, developmentally disabled
Examples:
Developmental disabilities are diagnosed at birth and during the developmental period.

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