In the early 1900s, psychologists used the terms “idiot,” “imbecile,” and “moron” to describe different levels of retardation. These terms were replaced in the 1970s with “mild,” “moderate,” and “severe” due to their demeaning nature. Developmental disabilities are now defined by more than just IQ, including levels of mental and physical functioning. Signs of disability can appear in young children who have difficulty with basic tasks and social interaction.
True, there is a difference. The three terms were not even born as social insults, in fact. In the early 1900s, psychologists used the terms to describe various levels of retardation. Those with an IQ of 0 to 25 (an IQ of 100 is average) were called idiots, 26 to 50 were called imbeciles, and 51 to 70 were called idiots. Idiots could communicate and learn common tasks; the imbeciles stopped mentally at about six years of age; and idiots could not respond to stimuli or communicate with any level of proficiency.
Other facts:
The terms lasted until the 1970s, when society decided they were demeaning or condescending. They have been replaced with mild, moderate and severe.
Children with Down syndrome were formerly called Mongolian idiots because their features were thought to resemble people from Mongolia; Down syndrome was first called mongolism.
Levels of delay, or developmental disabilities, are now defined by more than just IQ: levels of mental and physical functioning are also considered.
Metal signs of disability can begin with young children who crawl or walk or sit up later than their peers. They may also have difficulty remembering information, speaking, and interacting socially with other children.
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