Citation

Eppler M, Brown G. Child Abuse Negl. 1977; 1(2-4): 309-313.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1977, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Retrospective case study analysis was done to determine the number of persons retarded due to child abuse and neglect. Analysis was made of 436 cases of mental retardation diagnosed between 1957 and 1973 by a multiprofessional team in Anchorage, Alaska. Independent analysis was made by the two authors using predetermined criteria of maltreatment and reliability of data. Sixty-five of 436 (14.9) cases had evidence of abuse and neglect prior to identification of their retardation. Higher rates of abuse and neglect were found among native Alaskans (Aleuts, Eskimos, and Indians) than Caucasians. Higher rates of abuse and neglect were found among females than males of the mentally retarded population.Paucity of reported studies of abuse and neglect as causes of mental retardation is discussed. It is concluded that abuse and neglect are preventable, but underappreciated, causes of mental retardation.