Borderline intellectual functioning in children and adolescents – insufficiently recognized difficulties

Abstract Aim:  To draw attention to groups of children and adolescents with borderline intellectual functioning, especially with respect to their school‐situation. Methods:  In one study, population‐based, children with borderline intellectual functioning at age 10 years were followed until they finished compulsory school when their final certificates could be analysed. In a second study parents of 20 individuals in the upper secondary school for pupils with mild mental retardation were interviewed according to the Vineland adaptive scales and school health records were reviewed. In a third study pupils attending an individual programme in upper secondary school were assessed and we report one representative case. Results:  (1) Pupils with borderline intellectual functioning, assessed in grade 4, received significantly lower grades when finishing the compulsory school. (2) In the group of pupils in the upper secondary school for the mildly mentally retarded, compiled data indicated that a considerable number did not fulfil the combined IQ and adaptive criteria for mild mental retardation. (3) The subtle nature of borderline intellectual functioning may delay appropriate measures at school, which our case illustrates. Conclusion:  Borderline intellectual functioning seldom attracts attention. Our studies indicate that school and also society at large must be prepared to adapt educational and working conditions for the large minority of individuals with borderline intellectual functioning.