Excerpts are given of presentations and discussion from the 1979 Puerto Rico conference on international developments in mental retardation. R. Dybwad ("The Child with Retardation Today--The Adult of Tomorrow") briefly reviews international issues, including self advocacy and problems of world poverty and malnutrition. M. de Trias lists ideal elements in intervention for families ("The Family--Growing Together"). In "Education for Living," L. Brown describes key elements in education for the handicapped, including zero rejection, a normal ratio between those with handicaps and those without, and natural environments. W. Eigner predicts the development of programs--especially industrial ones--for adult handicapped persons. B. Speake examines the work environment of the adult with retardation. A final paper, by J. Dickey, et al., presents quotes and thoughts from 30 persons with mental retardation on such topics as segregation, powerlessness, and self advocacy. (CL)