The experience and perceptions of support of people with mild to moderate intellectual disability and how this relates to their identity: and Clinical Research Portfolio

Chambers, Claire Megan (2020) The experience and perceptions of support of people with mild to moderate intellectual disability and how this relates to their identity: and Clinical Research Portfolio. D Clin Psy thesis, University of Glasgow.

Abstract

Introduction:

Research has highlighted that people with intellectual disabilities value their support but also report areas of dissatisfaction in how it is delivered. Previous research has also been conducted on the stigma associated with having an intellectual disability, but little research has emerged on the impact being supported has on their sense of identity.

Method:

Ten adults aged between 24 and 36 years with a mild or moderate intellectual disability, living within their own tenancy or supported accommodation and in receipt of paid support were recruited. Semi structured interviews were carried out and data were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.

Results:

Analysis identified two overarching themes: 1) support feels like a need and a comfort; 2) Acceptance of support is influenced by the sensitivity of its delivery. Personal histories were found to impact on individual’s ability to trust others and form meaningful connections.

Conclusions:

The way support is delivered to individuals can affect the sense of control they have over their lives and feelings of being respected and valued, ultimately impacting on their self-identity. Services should consider the aspects of support valued and what changes can be made to promote positive identities.

• Item Type: Thesis (D Clin Psy)
• Qualification Level: Doctoral
• Additional Information: Internal note 11 May 20 MC. Grad School notified and access dec form requested.
• Keywords: intellectual disability, support, identity, Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, experiences.
• Subjects: B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
• Colleges/Schools: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Mental Health and Wellbeing
• Supervisor's Name: Jahoda, Professor Andrew
• Date of Award: 2020
• Depositing User: Miss Claire Megan Chambers
• Unique ID: glathesis:2020-81351
• Copyright: Copyright of this thesis is held by the author.
• Date Deposited: 12 May 2020 09:15
• Last Modified: 01 Sep 2022 15:05
• Thesis DOI: 10.5525/gla.thesis.81351
• URI: https://theses.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/81351