Adaptive behavior is a dynamic construct, influenced by cultural norms and age-related expectations. The zeitgeist of the times also has affected how it has been conceptualized and applied to practice. This paper presents a brief and selective history of the care and treatment of persons with mental retardation, emphasizing the roles that adaptive behavior has played in assessing and treating this group of handicapped persons. The purpose of the historical perspective is to contribute to a clearer understanding of adaptive behavior and a greater appreciation for its potential importance in training as well as assessment of mentally retarded individuals. In the final sections of the paper, we discuss current and possible future applications of adaptive behavior.
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