Role-taking, self-image, and imitativeness of mentally retarded and nonretarded individuals.

Retarded and nonretarded individuals matched on MA and CA were tested on role-taking, self-image, and imitation. Higher IQ, MA, real self-image, and ideal self-image were associated with less imitation. Higher IQ and MA were related to more positive ideal self-image, and higher MA was related to more positive real self-image. Retarded individuals had less positive real and ideal self-images compared to the nonretarded groups but were equal to the MA-matched nonretarded group on role-taking ability. The findings were interpreted as supporting the view that role-taking ability is a function of cognitive level and that self-image and imitation are determined by both cognitive and experiential factors.