The physical and social characteristics of 60 American Indian children referred for psychological services were compared to those of 60 matched, non-Indian controls. Data were obtained from detailed records available in a multidisciplinary, medical school-related child study clinic. Indian children exhibited more health and social risk factors, but were superior to non-Indians on a variety of motor variables. Interpretations are offered concerning better psychological services for American Indian children based on better understanding of their possible exposure to physical health and social risks which may be related to psychological development.