Factors affecting the development of a taxonomy of psychopathology for children with mental retardation are considered, along with the following diagnostic areas to address: stereotypic behavior and self-injury, autism, organic brain syndromes, and pervasive developmental disorders. Using data from multivariate studies and findings related to…

The use of the diagnosis "borderline" was evaluated with 16 children (6 to 13 years old) who were referred for comprehensive evaluation. None met DSM III criteria for borderline personality disorder. The borderline label had a negative impact on some children and was not helpful for treatment planning or disposition. (Author/SEW)