Work

Including significant others in psychological therapy with people with intellectual disabilities: A national survey of the practice of UK psychologists

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Talking therapy for people with intellectual disabilities is often specifically adapted. One adaptation is the involvement of significant others in therapy, however, there is no systematic description of the use of this adaptation in routine clinical practice. METHOD: An online survey of UK psychologists regarding the inclusion of significant others in individual therapy with people with intellectual disabilities. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. RESULTS: Ninety-five psychologists who work with people with intellectual disabilities provided responses to questions regarding the decision to include significant others in therapy, factors that make including significant others more or less likely and how the role of significant others is explained to them. CONCLUSIONS: Psychologists consider a range of factors in deciding the involvement of significant others. We discuss implications for training of therapists working with people with intellectual disabilities, issues of consent and how the roles of significant others are understood.

Source: Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities

DOI: 10.1111/jar.13287

Authors: Laura Surley, Dave Dagnan, Kate Lawson, Andrew Jahoda

Institutions: Cumbria Northumberland Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust, Northgate Hospital, University of Glasgow

Language: English

Topic: Down syndrome and intellectual disability research

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,550