Content area
Abstract
In the United States there are an estimated six million children and adults who are mentally retarded (MR). Of these, approximately ten to fifteen percent are also emotionally disturbed (ED). A literature review indicated that an exploratory needs assessment had not been made regarding adult education training needs for those serving the MR-ED in community-based mental retardation centers (CBMRs).
The Eastern Nebraska Community On Retardation (ENCOR) provided seventy-five respondents research questions related to a general need for training staff, and training needs regarding MR-ED adult age groupings, levels of retardation, allied medical problems, training formats, and the integration of delivery programs.
A survey questionnaire was devised wherein the rank ordering of results provided revealing secondary responses.
Eighty-nine percent of respondents felt there was a need for adequate training. Family support was the primary choice as an important service area. However, rank ordering revealed respondents felt the most important training needs were at the CBMRs, and that behavior management needed the most attention; passive self-defense and controlling self-injury and aggression to others by MR-ED clientele were expressed needs.
The profoundly and severely retarded client present greater staff training problems decreasing with ascending levels of intelligence. Training is also needed in the preparation of Individual Program Plans (IPPS), and in working with client language/communication and motor disorders, as well as in recognizing the dual diagnosis of MR-ED. The eighteen to twenty-five year age group presents age-specific needs.
The preference of mode of training was not clear. Pre-service and in-service training was slightly preferred. Responses to a comprehensive question supported the evidence.
