Which degree of mental disability has the highest recorded population?

The degree of mental disability that has the highest recorded population is mild mental disability. This classification encompasses a significant number of individuals because it typically represents those whose cognitive functioning falls within a range where they may experience challenges but can often lead relatively independent lives. Individuals classified as having mild disabilities may succeed in academic environments with appropriate support and may achieve functional autonomy in society.

This category often includes those who may have IQ levels from approximately 50 to 70 and can develop social and basic academic skills. Support systems and educational training can notably enhance their capabilities, allowing them to integrate more fully into the community.

In contrast, moderate, severe, and profound disabilities represent fewer individuals, as they usually indicate more significant impairments in cognitive functioning and daily living skills, resulting in a smaller population within those categories.