WEST-E Special Education Practice Test

Which disability requires that the student has a significant delay in adaptive skills?

1. Multiple disabilities

2. Developmental delay

3. Sensory processing disorder

4. Speech or language impairments

The correct answer is: Developmental delay

The correct answer reflects the requirements for identifying a developmental delay, which specifically includes significant delays in adaptive skills. Adaptive skills refer to the practical, everyday skills needed to live independently and function in society, including areas such as self-care, communication, and social skills. In the context of special education, a developmental delay signifies that a child is not meeting milestones in any of these skills, which can impact their ability to participate fully in normal activities for their age group. Developmental delays are recognized across various developmental domains, including cognitive, physical, and social-emotional development, with adaptive behavior being a crucial area of assessment. Determining eligibility for special education services often involves evaluating how a child's adaptive skills compare to typical developmental expectations for their age. In contrast, the other disabilities listed do not inherently require a significant delay in adaptive skills. For example, multiple disabilities may encompass a variety of challenges but do not specifically mandate delays in adaptive skills alone. Sensory processing disorder focuses more on how individuals process sensory information, and speech or language impairments primarily deal with communication without necessarily encompassing adaptive skills. Therefore, the distinguishing characteristic of a developmental delay is the comprehensive requirement for significant delays in adaptive skills.