The parent version of SDQ was used to assess psychological problems in children with mental retardation (MR). First, we investigated the SDQ results in a small group of children with MR (n = 21), selected from the 7-9 year old participants in the Bergen Child Study (BCS). Secondly, SDQ was included as part of the preparation of an individual habilitation-plan (IP) for a fourteen year old boy with MR. In the MR group form the BCS, the total SDQ score as well as subscores of emotional problems, hyperactivity and peer problems were higher than expected form results in the whole population. The fourteen year old boy showed similar results. To be useful in the development of and IP, some adaptations of the SDQ and inclusion of a broader spectrum of clinical information were necessary.