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Perceptions of communication before and after a speech pathology intervention for an adult with intellectual disability
- Authors:
- FORSTER Sheridan, IACONO Teresa
- Journal article citation:
- Journal of Intellectual and Developmental Disability, 32(4), December 2007, pp.302-314.
- Publisher:
- Taylor and Francis
The aim of this study was to explore, from the perspective of key communication partners, the meaning of a communication intervention and associated changes for an adult with severe intellectual disability (ID). The parents and key support workers of Mark, a 22-year-old man with ID and complex communication needs, were interviewed. The interviews were conducted prior to and following a speech pathology intervention and were guided by a communication inventory based on the concept of social networks. Interview transcripts were analysed qualitatively, with a focus on the subjective meaning of communication changes. These changes were explored according to both the specific information sought through the inventory and additional information provided. The findings were organised into three key themes relating to Mark, his familiar communication partners (i.e., parents and disability support workers), and the community. Information obtained from the interviews indicated that Mark's reported communication level remained stable across the intervention. However, an in-depth analysis of the interview transcripts revealed some gains in his communication skills. From the perspective of Mark's familiar communication partners, key sub-themes emerged which were related to changes in ascription of responsibility for developing skills and strategies to enhance Mark's communication. Furthermore, greater participation by Mark in his home community was evident. The findings are discussed in terms of the assessment of an individual's communication through interactions with communication partners, and how changes associated with an intervention can be best understood from analysis of rich data
Raising our sights: services for adults with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities
- Author:
- FORSTER Sheridan
- Journal article citation:
- Tizard Learning Disability Review, 15(3), July 2010, pp.13-16.
- Publisher:
- Emerald
This paper provides a commentary on the report by Jim Mansell and the Department of Health ‘Raising Our Sights: Services for Adults with Profound Intellectual and Multiple Disabilities’. It describes and comments on some of the main issues considered in the report. It points out that, although the report interviews families which have been selected as exemplars of good practice, the criteria used to determine good practice are not specified. Also highlighted is the fact that much of the service provision described is based in family homes, and there is a lack of examples of good practice from group homes or day services. Some of the recommendations are also criticised as applying to people with lesser support needs and not to people with profound and multiple disabilities. The paper also compares the situation in Australia regarding the needs and services of people with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities. It concludes that ‘Raising Our Sights’ contributes well to the growing agenda to improve the quality of lives of adults with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities, setting a clear public policy agenda and prompting researchers to consider the next steps in asking questions that will inform future policy.