Mental Retardation
Mental retardation is diagnosed based on intelligence scores and the amount of support needed for normal functioning. Those affected lag behind their peers in achieving major developmental milestones.
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- Q Why is mental retardation also called intellectual disability?
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Many doctors and other health professionals have begun to replace the term "mental retardation" with intellectual disability. The term "mental retardation" can have a negative connotation. A transition term, "mental retardation/intellectual disability"... Full Answer
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- Q What treatment options are available for mental retardation?
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A team or professionals will work together to create an individualized plan to help meet your child's needs. This team may include social workers, speech therapists, neurologists, pediatricians, psychologists, and educators. Your child will be evaluated... Full Answer
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- Q What increases my child's risk for mental retardation?
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Alcohol and drug use during pregnancy significantly increase your child's risk for mental retardation. A family history of genetic disorders can also increase risk. On the other hand, appropriate prenatal care can significantly lower your child's risk... Full Answer
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- Q What do I need to know about caring for someone with mental retardation?
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Individuals with MR/ID do best when cared for by a team of professionals including social workers, therapists, neurologists and psychologists. This team will help you to manage your child's condition with exercises, therapies and behavioral techniques.... Full Answer
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- Q What are the symptoms of mental retardation?
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Children with mental retardation often do not exhibit symptoms until preschool age, when they begin to experience delayed language development, motor development, and social skills. They may be slow to dress themselves and eat on their own. Affected... Full Answer
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- Q Should I consult my doctor about my child's mental retardation?
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If your child exhibits symptoms of mental retardation such as delayed language development and does not meet age-appropriate milestones, you may want to consult with your doctor to see if testing is necessary. Children develop at different rates, but... Full Answer
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- Q How does mental retardation affect the body?
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Infants with mental retardation may have physical abnormalities such as an enlarged or unusually small head, unusual facial features, or problems with their hands or feet. They may not sit, roll over, stand or walk as quickly as their peers. Some mental... Full Answer
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- Q How common is mental retardation?
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Mental retardation is diagnosed based on intelligence scores and the amount of support needed for normal functioning. About 1 percent of the population has mental retardation that requires support. However, based on IQ tests alone, about 3 percent of the... Full Answer
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- Q Does mental retardation affect children differently than adults?
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Mental retardation is identified between birth and six years old. Affected children tend to lag behind peers in coordination, social skills, and language development. Many children with mental retardation require support from doctors, neurologists,... Full Answer
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- Q Can mental retardation be treated with medication?
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No specific medications are used to treat all individuals with mental retardation.A team of health professionals will evaluate the individual with the disorder to determine weaknesses and strengths and then provide a plan to maximize the individual's... Full Answer
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