Cognitive antecedents of imitativeness and persistence in children with mental retardation.

Two studies with children with mild mental retardation were conducted within the framework of the cognitive orientation theory, which describes how cognitive contents and processes guide behavior and thus enable behavior predictions and modifications. The studies were designed to test whether specific clusters of beliefs would predict imitation and persistence among individuals with mental retardation. Behavioral measures and questionnaires that assessed beliefs were administered. The belief scores were related significantly to the behaviors. Implications concerning motivation, the developmental-difference controversy, and individual differences were discussed.