A 10-year-old boy displays deficits in intellectual functions that involve his ability to reason, solve problems, and learn from instruction or experience. He has been slow to develop skills in school and is behind his peers in reading, writing, and mathematical abilities. As a result, he has significant impairments in his ability to develop socially appropriate interpersonal communication skills and has developed no real friendships. He is dependent on others for assistance with his basic needs, such as dressing and feeding. Which of the following diagnoses most accurately represents this presentation?

Choice A reason: Autism spectrum disorder involves social communication deficits and restricted interests, but this boy’s primary challenges include generalized intellectual impairment, making autism less accurate. Choice B reason: Global developmental delay is a diagnosis for children under 5; at age 10, intellectual disability is more appropriate. Choice C reason: Intellectual disability is characterized by deficits in intellectual and adaptive functioning that manifest during the developmental period, matching this child’s academic, social, and self-care impairments. Choice D reason: Childhood-onset neurocognitive disorder refers to acquired cognitive decline, not lifelong developmental deficits evident since early childhood.