Navigating the landscape of diagnoses related to intellectual and developmental differences can be complex. Terms have evolved significantly over time, reflecting societal shifts and a deeper understanding of these conditions. For many years, the acronym MHMR, standing for Mental Health and Mental Retardation, was utilized in various contexts, particularly within service organizations and governmental frameworks. However, as language and understanding progressed, the term “mental retardation” became increasingly stigmatized, leading to a significant shift in terminology. This article delves into the history of MHMR, explains why the term is no longer in favor, and clarifies the emergence and widespread adoption of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) as the preferred and respectful terminology.
The Historical Context of MHMR
The acronym MHMR gained prominence as a way to broadly categorize services and support systems aimed at individuals with mental health needs and intellectual disabilities. Organizations and state agencies often adopted MHMR in their names and operational structures, aiming to provide comprehensive care. This terminology reflected the diagnostic understanding and societal perceptions prevalent during the mid to late 20th century. However, the component “mental retardation” within MHMR, while intended as a clinical term at the time, gradually acquired negative connotations and became deeply hurtful when used outside of professional settings.
The shift away from “mental retardation” and consequently the decline in the use of MHMR was not abrupt but rather a gradual movement driven by advocacy groups, professionals, and individuals with lived experience. Key milestones mark this evolution, demonstrating a conscious effort to adopt more respectful and person-first language.
Key Timeline of Terminology Evolution
Several pivotal moments highlight the transition from MHMR-era language to the current IDD framework:
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2007: AAIDD’s Name Change: The American Association on Mental Retardation (AAMR), a leading professional organization in the field, officially changed its name to the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD). This name change was a significant symbolic step, directly replacing “Mental Retardation” with “Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities” in its core identity.
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2009: Spread the Word to End the Word Campaign: The “Spread the Word to End the Word” campaign emerged from the Special Olympics World Winter Games. This initiative directly addressed the harmful use of the “r-word” (retarded) and aimed to raise awareness about the damaging impact of stigmatizing language. It became a highly visible campaign, further fueling the movement for respectful terminology.
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2010: Rosa’s Law: A landmark piece of legislation, Rosa’s Law, was passed in the United States. This law mandated the removal of the phrase “mental retardation” from federal health, education, and labor policies. It legally replaced the term with “intellectual disability,” cementing the shift in official language and promoting person-first language across governmental sectors.
Why MHMR and “Mental Retardation” Became Problematic
While MHMR and “mental retardation” were once accepted terms, their usage became increasingly fraught with issues:
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Stigma and Negative Connotations: The term “retarded,” derived from “mental retardation,” evolved into a widely used insult in everyday language. This colloquial usage stripped the term of its clinical meaning and imbued it with deeply negative and derogatory connotations. The association with insult made the clinical term “mental retardation” itself stigmatizing and hurtful, regardless of intent.
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Shift Towards Person-First Language: The broader disability rights movement championed person-first language, emphasizing the individual before the diagnosis. Phrases like “a person with an intellectual disability” prioritize the personhood of the individual, rather than defining them solely by their condition. “Mental retardation,” and by extension MHMR, were seen as diagnosis-first and contributed to the dehumanization of individuals.
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Focus on Strengths and Abilities: Modern approaches to understanding intellectual and developmental differences emphasize individual strengths, abilities, and the potential for growth and inclusion. The older terminology, rooted in a deficit-based model, often overlooked these crucial aspects. IDD terminology reflects a more holistic and empowering perspective.
As Dr. Steven J. Taylor, former editor of AAIDD, aptly stated, “The crux of the issue here goes beyond language and terminology into the deeper issues of inclusion and acceptance of people with intellectual disabilities in society.” The terminology shift is not merely about semantics; it reflects a fundamental change in societal attitudes and a commitment to fostering inclusivity and respect.
Embracing IDD and Respectful Language Today
The adoption of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) represents a significant step forward in promoting respectful and accurate language. IDD encompasses a broader range of conditions that manifest during development and are characterized by intellectual and adaptive behavior challenges. This terminology is considered more inclusive and less stigmatizing than “mental retardation.”
For organizations like Betty Hardwick Center, using respectful and evolving language is paramount. It aligns with the core mission of supporting individuals in living full, safe, and healthy lives, and fostering their capacity to take control and enjoy their lives. Recognizing the power of language is crucial in creating a supportive and dignified environment for everyone.
While IDD is currently the accepted terminology, language continues to evolve. It’s important to remain mindful of ongoing discussions and potential future shifts in nomenclature. The underlying principle remains constant: to use language that is inclusive, respectful, and person-first, ensuring that individuals with intellectual and developmental differences are treated with dignity and recognized for their inherent worth.
Sources:
- Colvin, Carolyn, W. (2013, July 26). Change in Terminology: “Mental Retardation” to Intellectual Disability.” [Social Security Administration Rule]. Retrieved from: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2013/08/01/2013-18552/change-in-terminology-mental-retardation-to-intellectual-disability
- Prabhala, Anna. (2007, March 2). Mental Retardation Is No More – New Name Is Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. [Press Release]. Retrieved from http://sath.org/page/Mental_Retardation_Is_No_More151New_Name_Is_Intellectual_and_Developmental_Disabilities/10130/741/
- Special Olympics. (2010, October) Rosa’s Law Signed into Law by President Obama. [“In The News”]. https://www.specialolympics.org/stories/news/rosas-law-signed-into-law-by-president-obama
- “About Us.” AAIDD.org. American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. https://aaidd.org/about-aaidd
