Abstract
This paper will examine the history of mental retardation within three distinct periods: the pre-Civil War, the turn-of-the-century and the 1960s. In each of these periods, professional and societal perceptions of mental retardation underwent significant revision. Despite changing perceptions, however, the constant feature in the treatment of individuals with mental retardation is society's resistance or denials of a sexual life for them. This paper will argue that the persistence of this factor in American society continues to present special challenges to advocates for individuals with mental retardation. Implications for social work practice are discussed.