In special education assessments, what does "adaptive behavior" refer to?

Adaptive behavior refers to the range of social and practical skills necessary for individuals to function effectively in their daily lives. This includes skills related to communication, self-care, interpersonal relationships, and independent living, which are crucial in supporting individuals with developmental or learning disabilities.

By focusing on everyday functioning, adaptive behavior assessments help educators and practitioners understand how well a student can navigate their environment and interact with others. This insight is essential in developing appropriate educational plans and interventions to support the individual’s growth and success in real-world contexts.

While physical mobility is an element of adaptive behavior, it encompasses much more than just movement skills. Cognitive abilities, such as solving math problems, and artistic skills, demonstrate specific talents but are not part of the adaptive behavior framework.