Application of Piaget's Theory To the Study of Thinking of the Mentally Retarded: A Review of Research

Abstract

The developmental theory of Jean Piaget describes intellectual growth, from sensorimotor intelligence through adult logic. Although Piaget has not dealt with mentally retarded (MR) persons per se, his theory has been applied to that population by many researchers. Results of investigations into this application of Paget's stage theory of development indicate that the stages of development in the MR parallel those described by Piaget but appear at later chronological periods. Because of the tremendous variability in cognitive MR task performance within IQ categories, identification of specific aspects of concept learning holds promise for enhancing the school performance of MR children through individualized instruction.