What is a key feature of Global Developmental Delay?

A key feature of Global Developmental Delay is that it involves not meeting developmental milestones in one or more areas of functioning during the developmental period. This diagnosis is specifically used for children who are unable to achieve expected developmental skills in areas such as motor skills, communication, social skills, and self-help skills compared to their peers.

This condition is recognized when a child exhibits significant delays in their cognitive and physical development, and it can encompass a range of developmental issues that prevent them from performing at expected levels for their age group. The diagnosis is typically made when a child under the age of 5 shows delays in multiple areas of development, thus acknowledging the variability and the broader impact on the child's overall functioning.

Other options do not align with the definition. For instance, stating that it only applies to children over 5 years old misrepresents the age range, while focusing exclusively on academic deficits fails to encompass the full spectrum of development that is considered. Lastly, indicating advanced intellectual functioning contradicts the nature of Global Developmental Delay, which centers around significant delays, not advanced abilities.