A Multimodal Behavioral and Expressive Intervention for a Child with Intellectual Disability and Hyperactivity: A Three-Year Case Study

Abstract

This case study outlines the clinical and treatment considerations of a 7-year-old male child (Awais Saddique) diagnosed with Intellectual Disability with Hyperactivity (ID/H). The child exhibited signs of hyperactivity, inattention, and delayed developmental milestones in addition to having comorbid febrile seizures and a history of seizure episodes. The purpose of this case study is to enhance understanding about the child's behavioral, cognitive, and emotional functioning from a biopsychosocial perspective. To address these deficits, including developmental, medical, and family histories were provided to shed light on the relationships between neurological and environmental contexts regarding the child's functioning. Subject-level interventions were implemented between August 2022 through March 2025 with the use of a combination of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), play therapy, and therapy with music. The child's progress was enhanced and monitored across multiple domains (e.g., adaptive functioning, attention to task, and communication/regulatory skills). The results indicated gradual improvement in the regulation of behavior and eye contact and social interactions and overall adaptive functioning. This study discusses the importance of early intervention, a structured behavioral therapy approach, and a family-centered approach to improve the quality of life for children who are suffering from comorbid intellectual and behavioral issues.