Ego identity in mentally retarded adolescents

Abstract

Ego identity and the relations between ego identity and adjustment in mentally retarded adolescents were explored. Three groups were formed: 30 mildly retarded adolescents, 30 nonretarded adolescents matched for CA, and 30 nonretarded preadolescents matched for MA. Ego identity was individually assessed using a questionnaire, and social adjustment was assessed by teachers' ratings. The identity profile of the retarded adolescents differed from that of the nonretarded peers and from that of younger preadolescents. Results suggest that identity in retarded adolescents does not reflect a simple developmental lag, but rather a unique profile. Ego identity in the retarded adolescents was also related to their social adjustment and level of functioning, even after controlling for IQ.