Referral reasons for psychological services for adults with mental retardation

This study examined 391 adult referrals made to a mental health clinic serving individuals with menial retardation, in order to explore the relationship between referral source and referral reason. Each referral was categorized into I of 8 referral sources (e.g., vocational placements, day treatment programs) and into I or more of IO behavior categories (e.g., depression, externalizing behavior problems). Externalizing behaviors were the most common overall referral reason. However, referral reason did vary as a function of referral source. Also, sex and mental retardation level were associated with referral reason. Implications for assessment practices and future research are considered. Copyright (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.