Positive reinforcement techniques used by the staff teach that all actions have consequences: socially acceptable actions produce expanded privileges and benefits while, conversely, anti-social actions result in reproach and fewer privileges.

The unique characteristic about the students served by HDC is that they represent a  subgroup of the mentally retarded population in general.  Most people with mental retardation do not have significant behavior problems or criminal histories. 

People with Mental Retardation (MR) have trouble with reading, arithmetic, activities of daily living (hygiene, cooking, etc...), memory, and understanding higher order concepts (i.e. how are two items similar, what is the meaning of a certain proverb, and so on). However, please understand that having MR IS NOT the same thing as being stupid. 

There is no reason to be be fearful or apprehensive around people who have MR or any disability.  People with MR, also called a "Developmental Disability", are STILL people, equipped with feelings and emotions.  Most people in the general population do not have much exposure to people with MR; therefore, they react to these individuals in one of two ways:  overly positive (speak to an adult as if they were a child), or overly negative (extremely fearful, irritated, etc...) Most importantly, if you should meet someone with a developmental disability, please treat them with the respect and dignity as you would anyone else. 

The Diagnostic Criteria for Mental Retardation is as follows:

1.  Significantly sub-average intellectual functioning: An IQ of approximately 70 or below on an individually administered IQ test.

2.  Concurrent deficits or impairments in present adaptive functioning, in at least two of the following areas: (a) Communication, (b) Self-direction, (c) Functional academic skills, (d) Work, (e) Leisure, (f) Health, (g) Safety.

3.  The onset must be before the age of 18 years of age. 

The levels of Mental Retardation are:

1.  Mild:            IQ level 50-55 to approx. 70

2.  Moderate:  IQ level 35-40 to 50-55

3.  Severe:       IQ level 20-25 to 35-40

4.  Profound:    IQ level below 20 or 25

Most of the clients at HDC are considered to be in the Mild-Moderate level.