Scope and Content
Report by Dr Clifford, on behalf of the Hospital Commission, on 'Investigations of Mental Deficiency and Sane Epilepsy in Éire'. Containing methodology of an investigation carried out in Dublin City, Cork City, Laois/Offaly and Clare/Galway among school children, to diagnose mental deficiency using intelligence scales. Investigation was endorsed by the Department of Education. Report illustrates through detailed case studies the living and working conditions of 1940s Ireland, and reveals the common perceptions as to the underlying cause of mental illness that prevailed at this time. Appendix contains tables of the schools involved and the incidence of mental deficiency uncovered by the testing. Also includes accompanying wooden block puzzles designed for the testing.