Where can I find detailed information about the 2002 AAMR definition of mental retardation?
The released 10th edition of Mental Retardation: Definition, Classification, and systems of supports discusses the 2002 AAMR definition and classification system in great detail. It presents the latest thinking about the mental retardation and includes important tools and strategies to determine if an individual has mental retardation along with detailed information about developing a personal plan of individualized supports. It is an available from AAMR through the Website.
What is the official AAMR definition of mental retardation?
Mental retardation Is a disability characterized by significant limitations both in intellectual functioning and in adaptive behavior as expressed in conceptual, social, and practical adaptive skills. This disability originates before the age of 18.
A complete and accurate understanding of mental retardation involves realizing that mental retardation refers to a particular state of functioning that begins in childhood, has many dimensions, and is affected positively by individualized supports. As a model of functioning, it includes the contexts and environment within which the person functions and interacts and requires a multidimensional and ecological approach that reflects the interaction of the individual with the environment, and the outcomes of that interaction with regards to independence, relationship, societal contributions, participation in school and community, and personal well being.
What factors must be considered when determining if a person has mental retardation and developing an individualized support plan?
When using the AAMR definition, classification and systems of supports professionals
And other team members must:
- Evaluate limitations in present functioning within the context of the individual’s age peers and culture;
- Take into account the individual’s cultural and linguistic difference as well as communication, sensory, motor, and behavioral factors;
- Recognize that within an individual limitations often coexist with strengths;
- Describes limitations so that an individualized plan of needed supports can be developed; and
- Provide appropriate personalized supports to improve the functioning of a person with mental retardation.
Has AAMR always had the same definition of mental retardation?
No. AAMR has updated the definition of mental retardation ten times since 1908. Changes in definition have occurred when there is new information, or there are changes in clinical practice or breakthroughs in scientific research. The 10th edition of Mental Retardation: Definition, Classification and systems of supports contains a comprehensive update to the landmark 1992 system and provides important new information, tools and strategies for the field and for anyone concerned about people with Mental Retardation.
What is a disability?
A disability refers to personal limitations that represent a substantial disadvantage when attempting to function in society. A disability should be considered within the context of the environment, personal factors, and the need for individualized supports.
What are the causes of Mental Retardation?
The causes of mental retardation can be divided into biomedical, social behavioral and educational risk factors that interact during the life of an individual and /or across generations from parent to child. Biomedical factors are related to biologic process, such as genetic disorders or nutrition. Social factors are related to social and family interaction, such as child stimulation and adult responsiveness. Behavioral factors are related to harmful behaviors, such as mental substance abuse. And educational factors are related to harmful behaviors, such as family and educational supports that promote mental development and increases in adaptive skills. Also, factors present during one generation can influence the outcomes of the next generation. By understanding inter-generational causes appropriate supports can be used to prevent and reverse the effects of risk factors.
What is the AAMR Mission?
Founded in 1876, AAMR is the world’s oldest and largest interdisciplinary organization of professionals concerned about mental retardation. With headquarters in Washington, DC, AAMR has a constituency of more than 50,000 people and an active core membership of 7,500 in United States and in 55 other countries. The mission of AAMR is to promote progressive policies, sound research, effective practices, and universal rights for people with intellectual disabilities.
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