This report discusses a study of the characteristics and needs of children with mental retardation in the Segezha district in the Republic of Carelia in Russia. A training program for professionals and parents of children with mental retardation is also described. As a background for the study, statistical information regarding the populations' social status and health is discussed in Chapters 2-5. Information about the district is compared to similar statistics from Kainuu, Finland. In Chapters 6-9 the regulations concerning the care of people with disabilities in Carelia as well as the services currently available are reviewed. Chapter 10 focuses on the 154 children (0-16) with disabilities residing in Carelia. The study reviews the number of children living at home, the level of development and age of the children, services provided to the children, the tuition of children living in institutions, and family characteristics. Chapter 11 describes the training of the authorities responsible for children with disabilities in Segezha, as well as the training of the children's parents. General recommendations for changes in the care of individuals with disabilities in Segezha are presented in Chapter 12. Appendices include additional statistical information about the Segezha district. (Contains 10 references.) (CR)