For undergraduate and graduate introductory courses in Mental Retardation and intellectual disabilities in special education, psychology, social work, and social sciences programs. The eighth edition of this classic text again fulfills its goal of providing an introduction to intellectual disabilities that is readable and comprehensive, and which reflects the broad array of stories associated with this disability. The authors combine a developmental approach discussing their subject as it evolves from birth to the elder years with a multidisciplinary perspective that acknowledges the need for collaboration in regard to diagnosis and intervention in order to effectively assist people with mental retardation, intellectual disabilities and their families. Coverage pays particular attention to multicultural issues and incorporates the latest research in the field.