Component of the NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH. It was initially established to investigate the broad aspects of human development as a means of understanding developmental disabilities, including mental retardation, and the events that occur during pregnancy. It now conducts and supports research on all stages of human development. It was established in 1962.

Synonyms: Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development NICHD National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (U.S.) National Institute of Child Health and Human Development