Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Assistive Technology • Functional Assessment • SSI (Supplemental Security Income)

Developmental Disability

Term from Disability Services industry explained for recruiters

A Developmental Disability is a condition that begins during childhood and affects a person's physical, learning, language, or behavioral development. This includes conditions like autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and intellectual disabilities. Support professionals work with individuals who have these disabilities to help them live as independently as possible, learn new skills, and participate in their communities. The field focuses on person-centered care, which means creating support plans that match each person's unique needs and goals.

Examples in Resumes

Provided direct support to individuals with Developmental Disabilities in a residential setting

Created and implemented support plans for adults with Developmental Disability to achieve personal goals

Supervised team of 5 staff members serving people with Developmental Disabilities and Intellectual Disabilities

Typical job title: "Developmental Disability Support Professionals"

Also try searching for:

Direct Support Professional Disability Support Worker Special Needs Care Provider Developmental Services Worker IDD Support Specialist Residential Counselor Habilitation Specialist

Where to Find Developmental Disability Support Professionals

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where a client's family disagrees with their service plan?

Expected Answer: A senior professional should discuss person-centered planning, balancing client wishes with family concerns, conflict resolution strategies, and knowledge of advocacy and rights while maintaining professional boundaries.

Q: Describe your experience with program development and staff training.

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate experience creating training programs, implementing new support strategies, mentoring staff, and ensuring compliance with care standards and regulations.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you develop and implement behavior support plans?

Expected Answer: Should explain how to assess needs, create positive behavior supports, document progress, and adjust plans based on outcomes while maintaining dignity and respect for the individual.

Q: What strategies do you use to promote independence in daily living skills?

Expected Answer: Should discuss task analysis, breaking down skills into manageable steps, positive reinforcement, and how to gradually reduce support as capabilities improve.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is person-centered care and why is it important?

Expected Answer: Should explain that person-centered care means focusing on individual preferences, needs, and goals, and involving the person in decisions about their own support and care.

Q: How would you handle an emergency situation with a client?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of emergency procedures, maintaining calm, following protocols, documenting incidents, and knowing when to call for additional help.