On Evolution and Practical Significance of Definition of Mental Retardation
Jiacheng Xu · Zhongguo teshu jiaoyu · 2005
The definition of mental retardation has experienced important evolutions in recent 20 years. The first transformation was the change from 1983 system to 1992 system. 1983 system focused on inherent disability within the handicapped person and 1992 system approached mental retardation as a state of functioning rather than an inherent trait and recognized the interaction between the individual with limited intellectual functioning/adaptive behavior and the environment. Based on intensities of needed supports, a classification system was put forward; while the second transformation, 2002 system retains functional orientation and emphasizes supports offered by 5 new dimensions to improve personal functions and their quality of life. The evolutions of definition have changed the concepts of people towards mental retardation, having great significance to both classification system of mental retardation and the practice of education and rehabilitation for mental retardation.