NCJ Number
69611
Date Published
1973
Length
57 pages
Annotation
This guidebook for persons developing seminars for training law enforcement officers in how to deal with mentally retarded citizens includes general program suggestions and lists of resources.
Abstract
Although police are the main target group, many of the suggestions apply to the mentally retarded not as offenders but as citizens needing assistance. Therefore, it can be useful to any community group wanting to know more about working with the mentally retarded. The guidebook suggests kinds of participants and speakers to invite to the seminar. It recommends a general discussion aimed at dispelling myths about the mentally retarded, distinguishing mentally retarded persons from mentally ill persons, and understanding characteristics of a mentally retarded person. The guidebook recommends having mentally retarded speakers at the training seminar to discuss the kinds of problems they encounter daily and that might involve the police. It also provides police with ideas on small tests to give persons to determine whether they are retarded. A list of pertinent reading materials (36 items) and 6 films is included.