Search results for ‘Subject term:"learning disabilities"’ Sort:
Results 1 - 2 of 2
Bereavement and grief in adults with learning disabilities
- Authors:
- HOLLINS Sheila, ESTERHUYZEN Alexander
- Journal article citation:
- British Journal of Psychiatry, 170, June 1997, pp.497-501.
- Publisher:
- Cambridge University Press
Reports the results of the first systematic study of the reaction of people with learning disabilities to bereavement. The study used a semi-structured bereavement questionnaire along with the Aberrant Behaviour Checklist (ABC), the Psychopathology Instrument for Mentally Retarded Adults (PIMRA) and the Life Events Checklist. Results found significant differences between bereaved and non-bereaved samples. The study also found that staff and carers did not usually attribute behaviour problems to the bereavement and its concomitant life events, nor was there a recognition of psychopathology due to bereavement. Concludes that the impact in terms of psychiatric and behavioural morbidity of loss of a parent, with its concomitant life events, in adults with learning disabilities has been underestimated.
How far are people with learning disabilities involved in funeral rites?
- Authors:
- RAJI Oyenpeju, HOLLINS Sheila, DRINNAN Ange
- Journal article citation:
- British Journal of Learning Disabilities, 31(1), 2003, pp.42-45.
- Publisher:
- Wiley
Many referrals to specialist learning disability services follow bereavement and loss experiences. Research and clinical experience both suggest that people who have not been fully involved in funeral rituals have delayed and/or prolonged grief reactions. This study in a multicultural inner London borough examined local religious and cultural practices following bereavement of people with learning disabilities. Interviews were sought with funeral directors and representatives from six religious groups to build up a picture of local practice, resources and knowledge, particularly with regard to how people with learning disabilities are involved in the process. It was found that most of the local funeral directors had little direct experience of people with learning disabilities. The religious group representatives who were interviewed also spoke of a lack of involvement of people with learning disabilities. A pamphlet has been designed for funeral directors and religious groups to give to families or friends of people with learning disabilities who have been bereaved.