The third edition provides thorough coverage of the causes and characteristics of intellectual disabilities as well as detailed discussions of the validated instructional approaches in the field today. A revised "Future Directions" chapter explores the most recent philosophical, social, legal, medical, educational, and personal issues that professionals and people with intellectual disabilities face. All chapters have been updated with recent developments in research and the newest terminology being used in the field. This comprehensive and current introductory textbook is ideally suited for introductory or methods courses related to intellectual disabilities.