As a child with mental retardation enters adolescence, his or her education may focus more on skills for independent living, such as work skills, using public transportation, social adaptation and managing money. The emphasis on individual strengths and interests and related vocations becomes even stronger at this point, making specialized vocational training a major goal.

Adolescents with mental retardation may become depressed. Depending on the severity of retardation, they may lack communication skills to express their feelings. This may result in other problems, such as eating or sleeping disorders. It is important to be attentive to these and similar problems and address them quickly.

Adolescents with mild retardation can usually look forward to living at least semi-independently once they reach adulthood. Those with more severe forms may require more direct care from a family member or other caretaker throughout their lives.