Mental Retardation is defined as "significantly sub average general intellectual functioning" accompanied by "significant limitations in adaptive functioning" with an onset before the age of 18.
DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA FOR MENTAL RETARDATION:
An IQ of approximately 70 or below. Impairments in communication, self-care, home living, self-direction, work, health and safety.
CAUSES:
- Down syndrome.
- Fragile X syndrome.
- Phenylketonuria.
- Maternal infection during pregnancy.
TREATMENT: Behavioral therapy, special schooling, parental awareness are the different effective approaches.
