Borderline intellectual functioning

Borderline intellectual functioning, previously called borderline mental retardation, is a categorization of intelligence wherein a person has below average cognitive ability, but the deficit is not as severe as intellectual disability. It is sometimes called below average IQ. This is technically a cognitive impairment; however, this group may not be sufficiently mentally disabled to be eligible for specialized services.

Codes

The DSM-IV-TR code of borderline intellectual functioning is V62.89. DSM-5 diagnosis codes are V62.89 and R41.83.

Learning skills

During school years, individuals with borderline intellectual functioning are often "slow learners". Although a large percentage of this group fails to complete high school and can often achieve only a low socioeconomic status, most adults in this group blend in with the rest of the population.

Differential diagnosis

According to the DSM-5, differentiating borderline intellectual functioning and mild intellectual disability requires careful assessment of adaptive and intellectual functions and their variations, especially in the presence of co-morbid psychiatric disorders that may affect patient compliance with standardized test.