International Journal of Developmental Disabilities

The IJDD publishes scientific articles on work dealing with different approaches to the habilitation problems of people with an intellectual disability. The Journal covers the entire spectrum of intellectual disabilities, and is concerned with definitions, IQ, genetic predisposition, evaluation of abilities, learning interventions, challenging behaviour, medication, attitudes to death and bereavement, sexuality, legal aspects, WHO, NICE and other governmental guidelines, care in the community, advocacy, stress and coping strategies for families and carers - though this is not an exhaustive list. The unifying theme is that all of these aspects should be of practical help for those with intellectual disabilities or those caring for persons with intellectual disabilities. Emphasis is placed on the practical implications of the work of educationists, instructors, nurses, occupational and other therapists, psychiatrists, psychologists and social workers, whether taking place in a hospital setting or in community care. The Journal accepts contributions from anywhere in the world but they must be written in acceptable and fluent English, avoiding technical jargon as far as possible in view of the wide readership. The IJDD puts much emphasis on the practical application of scientific findings, and prospective contributors should keep in mind that acceptance of a manuscript for publication will depend to a great extent on its direct relevance to habilitation work. Readers of the IJDD expect that articles should give them some scientific help and insight in their practical work.