The relationship of social skills as measured by the MESSIER to rumination in persons with profound mental retardation.

Meuret et al. (2001) compared two groups of adults with profound intellectual disability.

One group ruminate—re-chew and re-swallow food. The other group does not.

Caregivers filled out the MESSIER rating scale to score each adult’s social skills.

The non-ruminating group earned higher “general positive” scores on the MESSIER.

Both groups looked the same on negative or disruptive behaviors.

Low positive social skills may flag clients who are at risk for rumination.

Hilton et al. (2010) give newer, stronger norms for the parent form (MESSY). Their data update and partly replace the 2001 MESSIER cut-offs you may have on file.

Matson et al. (2004) warn that caregiver-only ratings can agree only moderately. Use two raters when you can, just as you would with the Reiss Profile.

Tassé et al. (2013) show that once you spot social-skill gaps, a quick paired-choice test can tell you which friendly approaches actually work as reinforcement for that same client.

You already watch for pica or self-injury. Add rumination to the list when MESSIER “general positive” scores are low. If the score is weak, run a preference assessment for social interaction and use the winning style as reinforcement during meals. This two-step check can head off a hidden medical problem and improve mealtime safety.