Can a person with Down Syndrome also possess genius-level cognitive abilities? Is it possible for these two conditions to coexist, and if so, would they negate each other?
Medical science states that it is unlikely for a person with Down Syndrome to be considered a genius, as Down Syndrome is a genetic condition that affects cognitive development, while the term "genius" is a societal label given to individuals who possess exceptional intelligence and abilities.
Pablo Pineda, a European man with Down Syndrome, has proven that anything is possible. He is the first person with Down Syndrome to graduate from a university and has since achieved success as an actor, teacher, and motivational speaker, winning numerous awards in the process.
The Story Of Pablo Pineda: Nothing Is Impossible
Pineda is a Spanish actor who received the Concha de Plata Award at the 2009 San Sebastián International Film Festival for his role in the film Yo, también. In the film, he portrays a university graduate with Down Syndrome, much like his own life experience.
Pablo Pineda, who lives in Málaga, is a former employee of the municipality. He has a diploma in teaching and a BA in educational psychology. He made history by being the first person with Down syndrome in Europe to earn a university degree. He plans to pursue a career in teaching rather than acting.
When Pablo Pineda returned to Málaga, he was greeted by the mayor of the city, Francisco de la Torre, who presented him with the "Shield of the City" award from the city council. At the time, Pineda was promoting his film and giving lectures on disability and education, an endeavor he has been involved in for many years.
Currently, Pineda works with the Adecco Foundation in Spain, giving presentations at conferences on the labor-integration plan that the foundation is implementing with him. In 2011, he traveled to Colombia, where he gave presentations in Bogota and Medellin, highlighting the importance of social inclusion for people with disabilities. He also collaborates with the "Lo que de verdad importa" Foundation.
What Happens To A Person's IQ In Down Syndrome?
Psychologists periodically update IQ tests to ensure that 100 is the average score. Typically, about 68% of people have an IQ between 85 and 115. Only a small percentage of people have a very low IQ (below 70) or a very high IQ (above 130). The average IQ in the United States is 98.
Down Syndrome typically results in a reduction of about 50 points in a person's IQ. This means that unless the person would have had a very high IQ, they will likely have an intellectual disability. However, if the person had extremely intelligent parents, it is possible for them to have a borderline IQ, which is just above the threshold for intellectual disability.
For a person with Down Syndrome to have a gifted IQ (at least 130), they would have had to have the genetic potential for an IQ of 180 or higher, which is extremely rare, occurring in fewer than 1 in 1,000,000 people. It is unlikely that this level of intelligence would co-occur with Down Syndrome.
Pablo Pineda may have an IQ that is higher than the average person with Down Syndrome, but he may still experience discrimination or prejudice due to the physical characteristics associated with the condition.
Final Words
Lastly, it is important to note that Down Syndrome is also associated with various physical impairments. In the past, many individuals with Down Syndrome passed away during childhood due to medical complications, and their potential was never fully realized.
In the 21st century, society is rapidly advancing and seeking solutions to various issues. The experience of being a parent of a child with Down Syndrome can be difficult and challenging. Regardless of one's background, anyone can find themselves in a similar situation. It is important to re-evaluate and challenge the traditional belief that individuals with Down Syndrome are unable to contribute positively to society.
