The three major known causes of mental retardation are the genetic conditions of Down Syndrome , Fragile X, and Fetal Alcohol Syndrome , the result of alcohol consumption during pregnancy . The primary goal of treatment is to develop the person's potential to the fullest. Special education and training may begin as early as infancy. This includes social skills to help the person function as normally as possible. It is important for a specialist to evaluate the person for coexisting affective disorders and treat those disorders.
Behavioral approaches are important in understanding and working with mentally retarded individuals.