How is mental retardation diagnosed?

Mental retardation is diagnosed by looking at two main things. These are:

• Intellectual functioning, and
• Adaptive skills.

Intellectual functioning, or IQ, is usually measured by a test called an IQ test. The average score is 100. People scoring below 70 to 75 are thought to have mental retardation. Adaptive skills are measured by looking at what a child can do compared to other children of the same age. Certain things are important to adaptive skills. These are:

• daily living skills, such as getting dressed, going to the bathroom, and feeding one's self;
• communication skills, such as understanding what is said and being able to answer;
• social skills with peers, family members, adults, and others.

If you suspect mental retardation and have not had your child tested, talk to your school. The law requires public schools to provide free and appropriate education to children with mental retardation. Almost always free testing will also be provided.

Adapted from the National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities, Mental Retardation Fact Sheet (FS8). Accessed on 11/12/04, http://www.nichcy.org/pubs/factshe/fs8txt.htm#parents.