Sterilization among Mentally Retarded Women

Mental retardation, as defined by the DSM-IV is characterized by significantly sub average intellectual functioning (an IQ of approximately 70 or below) with onset before age 18 years and concurrent deficits or impairments in adaptive functioning in at least two of the following skill areas: communication, self-care home living, social/interpersonal skills, use of community resources, self-direction, functional academic skills, work, leisure, health and safety (American Psychiatric Association, 2000).