Mental Retardation

Mental retardation is a developmental disability* that begins in childhood and is characterized by limitations in both intelligence and adaptive skills. Here are some valuable web sites on mental retardation.

*Note: Although there are other developmental disabilities besides mental retardation, some organizations use the two terms synonymously. We suggest that you check the resources on our developmental disabilities page for other good resources, as well as the pages on specific disorders that cause mental retardation.

American Association on Mental Retardation (AAMR)

The web site of this professional organization is primarily composed of information about the organization and its publications. There’s also a good set of FAQs on such diverse topics as home ownership, human rights, self-advocacy, and person and family centered planning; look for them in the “policies” section.

The ARC

Formerly the Association for Retarded Citizens, the ARC is the country’s largest voluntary  organization committed to the welfare of children and adults with mental retardation and their families. Its web site is packed with useful information and resources, including FAQs, legislative newsletters, reports and other publications, local resources, links, and more.

President’s Committee on Mental Retardation (PCMR)

Information about the PCMR, a federal committee established to advise the President and the Secretary of Health and Human Services on issues concerning citizens with mental retardation.

Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Aging with Mental Retardation (RRTCAMR)

The RRTCAMR is a national resource for researchers, planners, providers, self-advocates, families and students in the field of aging and mental retardation. Its web site includes information on its research projects and publications.

Related Subjects
Developmental Disabilities
Specific disorders, e.g. Angelman SyndromeDown Syndromeother specific disorders
Specific topics, e.g. ArtsEducationHousingInclusionJust for ParentsSports and Recreationother specific topics
Resources in your state