Many articles have been written addressing the improper usage of the R-Word, but because I still hear it used incorrectly, I also wanted to address the issue. By the end of my article, my hope is you will think twice about the next time you say the R-word. I am not aiming to make readers feel bad, rather I want to educate you on your misuse of the word.

First, do you know the actual definition of the word? The definition of retard is, "1. To slow up especially by preventing or hindering the advance or accomplishment, 2. To delay academic progress by failure to promote." Notice, neither of these definitions includes the word "stupid." The term "retard" stems from the medical term, "mental retardation." Mental retardation refers to someone with a learning disability. In simple words, it is an individual who learns slower than other individuals of the same age. This disability can be minor or severe. A child with autism or down syndrome is often described as having a learning disability. But, this does not mean these individuals cannot learn. They can still be very intelligent and capable. This type of disability is a result of an injury to the brain. The injury usually occurs when someone is a baby because it prevents the brain from developing normally. It can result from the baby not receiving enough oxygen, being born too early, or suffering from a head injury. While the baby is in the womb, it can also result from the mother consuming alcohol or illegal drugs.

So, what are you really saying when you call someone a retard or retarded? You are most likely not referring to someone that has a learning disability. However, even though it is not your intention, you are insulting people with a learning disability. The term "mental retardation" has faded as a medical term because it was found to be offensive, and the term "learning disability" was put in its place. However, society is still using the word as a synonym for stupid. When you call someone retarded, you are indirectly referring to people with a learning disability as stupid. This usage of the word is offensive, it is incorrect, and this usage needs to be removed from society's vocabulary.

You most likely know someone who has a learning disability. You may even know a child with a learning disability. I challenge you to put yourself in the shoes of a parent who has a child with a learning disability. Your child has been diagnosed with a medical condition; a learning disability. This learning disability can sometimes be referred to as, "mental retardation." How would you feel if you heard someone use the word retard as an adjective to describe a stupid person? You hear someone use the name of your child's diagnosed medical condition as a synonym for stupid. Personally, I would be infuriated. That child is not stupid, and they are probably extremely loved. How would you feel if a person used a medical condition you were diagnosed with, one you have little control over, to describe a person's stupidity. My guess is you would feel hurt.

Now, consider what this does to a developing child. Children are very sensitive, their young years are vital to their development. Our relationship, experiences and environments contribute to our self-confidence. You could potentially seriously harm a child's thinking and perception of themselves if they were to hear you use the R-word in the wrong context.

Now that you know the power of your words and have learned the real definition of the word, please do not use the word retard as a synonym for stupid. Show you are more educated than that and avoid insulting the people who have a learning disability or know someone who does. If you hear someone using the word incorrectly, speak up and correct them. That is the only way change will be made.

Your words have power, I urge you to be cautious of how you use them. One word can scar a person, do not let that word be yours.