Cognitive research in mental retardation is reviewed according to research in model development (including work on the structures and processes comprising the cognitive system) and in the modifiability of cognitive processes (focusing on attempts to assess and intervene through use of examples). (CL)

A review of traditional (such as psychotherapy) and behavioral approaches (such as self-monitoring and reinforcement) to obesity treatment of mentally retarded students led to the conclusion that the behavioral orientation was more successful. Implications for initiating such programs include thorough training, voluntary participation, and parent…

This fact sheet uses a question-and-answer format to provide an overview of what physical fitness is and how it relates to people with mental retardation. Questions address the following topics: the fitness movement; a definition of physical fitness; the different components of physical fitness (muscle strength and endurance, flexibility, body…

This paper evaluates the current information base on sexuality of people with intellectual disabilities, specifically in the areas of sexual knowledge, sexual experience, sexual feelings and attitudes, and sexual need. Consideration of this information is critical in developing appropriate sex education programs that can enhance the quality of…

This article reviews research concerning (1) myths surrounding parents with mental retardation, (2) how life experiences of adults with mental retardation impact their parenting, and (3) characteristics of early intervention programs that meet the needs of parents with mental retardation. (DB)

Computer programs designed for testing and teaching language comprehension and for evaluating language production skills through the analysis of free speech samples in mentally retarded students are described. (JMK)

This monograph, one of a series on disabled youth and the juvenile justice system, discusses the crucial role of advocacy for these youth, stressing the importance of understanding the connection between disabilities and problematic behavior. It describes the multiple barriers that often hamper youth with cognitive and other disabilities from…

From April 11-14, 1995, the Onondaga Community Living (OCL) organization hosted a team of five visitors sponsored by Syracuse University's Center on Human Policy. OCL provides services to empower and individually support people with developmental disabilities. In investigating the organization's move toward the provision of individual supports in…

The current conceptualization in the mental retardation-developmental disability field regarding quality of life, quality enhancement, and quality assurance is summarized. Implications of these issues for program planning and evaluation are discussed, with attention to management and a framework for quality assurance. (SLD)

The paper addresses issues in counseling the retarded in the context of the research literature, identifies promising trends, and proposes a counseling model. Three issues are identified: the necessity for counseling to meet measurable objectives; the need for cost effectiveness; and the need for an integrated model. After proposing a definition…

The corruption of education values and the destruction of an outstanding educational system for children with mental retardation during Nazi rule in Germany necessitated a complete revamping after World War II. In its redevelopment, Germany resumed the practice of segregation and was slow to embrace social integration as adopted in other…

A teacher and mother of a child with mental retardation examined the history and current status of the inclusion movement. A review of the historical background considers the origins of special education, the Education for All Handicapped Children Act of 1975, major court cases, and requirements of the 1997 amendments to the Individuals with…

This paper begins with an overview of the population of adolescents and young adults with deafness. More detailed information is then provided on the characteristics of lower achieving deaf persons and those with multiple disabling conditions. School-to-community transition experiences of these groups are then discussed, with special focus on the…

This report examines various approaches to social education that are currently in use in Great Britain. Discussed in an overview of social education are the following topics: social education in secondary schools, social education and the Youth Service, social education for adults, training in personal interaction, the social education of mentally…

The monograph describes the progress that has been made in exceptional child education in Alabama during the last decade and addresses needed areas of improvement. Brief sections focus on the following items: financing special education programs, instructional programing in local education agencies, individualized education plans, diagnosis of…