Identifying expressions of pleasure and displeasure by persons with profound and multiple disabilities

Abstract

Background The aim of this study was to explore a procedure for drafting individualised profiles of how people with profound multiple disabilities express pleasure and displeasure.

Method There were 6 participants with profound multiple disabilities. The procedure involved an observational analysis of videotaped critical incidents by a researcher and a questionnaire for parents and support workers.

Results The procedure is useful for making an individualised profile of the ways a person with profound multiple disabilities expresses his/her pleasure and displeasure. Despite the significant correlation between parents, support workers and the researcher, each has a complementary contribution to make in identifying affective expressions. People with profound multiple disabilities especially use sounds and facial expressions to express pleasure and displeasure and positive or negative moods.

Conclusions The procedure may be useful in services or schools for learning more about the affective communication of these individuals, to determine their specific interests, and to evaluate the effects of living and support characteristics on their wellbeing.

Keywords:

• Profound disability
• multiple disability
• affective communication
• pleasure
• displeasure
• happiness
• quality of life