Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of intellectual disability?

The characteristic that is NOT associated with intellectual disability is having deficits found after the age of 18. Intellectual disabilities are typically identified during the developmental period, which is defined as birth to age 18. By this age, the hallmark criteria, including significantly impaired cognitive functioning and adaptive behavior deficits, would have manifested.

In contrast, the other characteristics listed are indeed associated with intellectual disability. Deficits in social skills often accompany intellectual disabilities, impacting an individual's ability to navigate personal interactions effectively. An IQ score of 70 or below is a diagnostic criterion that indicates significant limitations in intellectual functioning. Likewise, defects in communication skills are common, as many individuals with intellectual disabilities experience challenges in understanding and expressing language effectively. These factors combined outline the essential features of intellectual disability, while the age threshold specified in the correct option does not align with the condition's diagnostic criteria or developmental considerations.