Why You Rarely See Mentally Disabled People in Public: The Role of IQ Distribution and Segregation

Have you ever wondered why mentally disabled individuals are so rare in public spaces, given that about 2% of the population has an IQ below 70? The answer lies in the uneven distribution of IQ across the world and the segregation practices that limit public visibility.

Uneven Distribution of IQ

Contrary to a common myth, the 2% figure is not applied equally across all populations or regions. In approximately 60 countries, the average IQ is below 70, leading to a higher proportion of individuals with lower IQs in those regions. However, this doesn't mean that mentally disabled people are common everywhere.

These individuals are often found in specialized facilities, group homes, or living with their families under close supervision. Such environmental factors can significantly influence their presence in public, often shielding them from sight.

Assumptions and Misunderstandings

There is a misunderstanding that mentally disabled individuals look different from the general population, which is not always the case. Many people with significantly low IQs, below 70, face other congenital challenges, which might manifest physically. However, not all low IQs are due to physical conditions, making it hard to identify them visually.

A similar question could be posed regarding individuals with high IQs, where the assumption would be equally misguided: “If 2% of people have an IQ above 130, why is it so rare to spot a mentally gifted person in public?” This analogy helps to highlight the illogical nature of the original assumption.

The reality is that people with significantly low IQs often require assistance with daily tasks and might live in residential care or group homes. Their presence in public is not as frequent as those who lead more independent lives. For example, individuals with a moderate low IQ, such as 55-70, can go to work, do groceries, and manage semi-independent or independent lives. These individuals are more likely to be seen in public, but they might not be recognized immediately.

Segregation and Public Visibility

One of the major reasons why mentally disabled individuals are not commonly seen in public is segregation. As a service coordinator for individuals with mental disabilities, I frequently encounter them in various settings, such as day programs and community living arrangements. While some clients are in site-based programs for safety and behavioral reasons, others are integrated into the community, participating in activities while the service coordinator is not present.

For instance, adults with cognitive challenges might be performing tasks like bagging groceries, cleaning, or performing other menial jobs without drawing much attention. Additionally, many facilities are transitioning away from traditional segregation practices and towards more inclusive models, gradually integrating individuals into the broader community.

Conclusion

The rarity of seeing mentally disabled individuals in public is a complex issue rooted in IQ distribution and social segregation practices. While the idea of them being "different" visually can be misleading, their lack of public presence is more a result of their living conditions and assistance needs rather than any inherent visibility.

As policies and societal attitudes continue to evolve, we can expect to see more integration and public visibility of these individuals, leading to a better understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity in society.