Learning Disability  

 The topics suggested should complement those topics which will be covered in other areas of psychiatry, particularly neuropsychiatry and child psychiatry.   

 Services  

Normalization and related social theories and their influence on service development for people with an intellectual disability. The change from an institutional to an individualized, needs led approach.   

The provision of specialist psychiatric services for people with intellectual disability.     

Epidemiology   

The prevalence/incidence of intellectual disability in the general population. The prevalence/incidence of superadded behavioral, psychiatric, and other impairments within this group. The factors which might account to the observed high rates of psychiatric behavioral disorders in this group.   

 Etiology  

Biological causes of intellectual disability, including genetic and environmental effects, and the clinical characteristics of common biological conditions associated with intellectual disability such as Down Syndrome, fragile-X syndrome, and fetal alcohol syndrome. The influence of psychological and social factors on intellectual and emotional development in people with intellectual disability, including the concept of secondary handicap.  

 Clinical   

Assessment and communication with people with intellectual disabilities.   

The presentation and diagnosis of psychiatric illness and

behavioral disorder in people with intellectual disability, including the concept of diagnostic overshadowing  

Psychological methods of assessment and an understanding of psychological theories as to the cause of problem behaviors. An understanding of relevant behavioral modification techniques.   

The application of psychiatric methods of treatment in intellectual disability including psychotherapy, drug treatments, behavior therapy, and cognitive therapy.    

The application of a multidisciplinary approach to the management of mental health problems in people with intellectual disability  

Specific syndromes and their association with psychiatric or behavioral disorders (behavioral phenotypes).   

The impact of disability on the family and the psychological consequences of having a child with a disability.   

The assessment, management, and treatment of offenders with  Intellectual disability