What emotional response might individuals with intellectual disabilities exhibit when routines are interrupted?

Individuals with intellectual disabilities often rely on structured routines to provide a sense of stability and predictability in their daily lives. When these routines are interrupted, it can lead to feelings of discomfort or distress. Agitation is a common emotional response as they may feel confused or anxious due to the unexpected change.

This emotional reaction is often tied to the difficulty that some individuals with intellectual disabilities have in adapting to new situations or managing unexpected events. The disruption of routine can trigger heightened emotional responses, as they may struggle to understand or cope with the sudden change. In contrast, responses such as extreme excitement, calmness, or indifference are less typical in these scenarios, as such reactions do not adequately reflect the challenges faced by individuals who thrive on routine and familiarity.