Perceptions and expectations of regular support meetings between staff and people with an intellectual disability

Reuzel, E., Bosman, A. T., Embregts, P. J.C.M., van Nieuwenhuizen, M. and Jahoda, A. (2016) Perceptions and expectations of regular support meetings between staff and people with an intellectual disability. Journal of Intellectual and Developmental Disability, 42(2), pp. 142-150. (doi: 10.3109/13668250.2016.1225951)

Abstract

Background: Client-centred models of care emphasise the importance of collaborative working between staff and clients with an intellectual disability (ID). How people with an ID perceive the nature of their engagement with staff is relatively unknown. This study investigated the perceptions of staff and people with an ID about the goals for their meetings and what aspects of the meetings they viewed as important. Method: Interviews were carried out with 9 client–staff dyads. Prior to their meeting, staff and clients were asked about their expectations. Afterwards, both parties were asked about what they believed happened during the interaction. The participants’ answers were subjected to a thematic analysis. Results: People with an ID appreciated the opportunity to tell their story and valued reliable, practical support and advice. A trusting relationship was important to both clients and staff. Only staff viewed promoting clients’ autonomy as important. Conclusion: Staff and people with an ID appear to differ in their expectations and perceptions regarding regular support meetings.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Jahoda, Professor Andrew
• Authors: Reuzel, E., Bosman, A. T., Embregts, P. J.C.M., van Nieuwenhuizen, M., and Jahoda, A.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Mental Health and Wellbeing
• Journal Name: Journal of Intellectual and Developmental Disability
• Publisher: Informa Healthcare
• ISSN: 1366-8250
• ISSN (Online): 1469-9532
• Published Online: 06 September 2016
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2016 Australasian Society for Intellectual Disability, Inc.
• First Published: First published in Journal of Intellectual and Developmental Disability 42(2):142-150
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the publisher copyright policy