Accuracy and stability of self-image of mentally retarded adults.

The accuracy and stability of self-image of 21 mentally retarded adults and 24 nonretarded adults were studied. The subjects were confronted with a distorting mirror that made their faces look either fatter or slimmer. Results showed that retarded adults saw themselves as more distorted than did non-retarded adults. Significant sex differences in the retarded population were found. Both the precision and the stability of retarded adults' self-image were significantly correlated with IQ. Results were interpreted within a cognitive framework.