Using Social Network Analysis to Measure Social Inclusion for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Abstract

The aim of this perspective is to describe the theory and practical steps of using principles of social network analysis to help measure the social inclusion of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Social inclusion for those with disabilities has become an important area of focus of rehabilitative professionals in the past decade. Social inclusion is comprised of the domains participation and social interaction. Decreased social inclusion can negatively impact quality of life and health. Individuals with IDD continue to experience barriers to social inclusion such as limited opportunities to socialize and participate in community groups, physical barriers, and the lack of available valued social roles. There are limited methods for measuring social inclusion for individuals with IDD. Social network analysis is one way to analyze and understand social relationships to better understand the social inclusion of individuals with IDD. Providing a way to measure social inclusion may help answer questions about the effectiveness of interventions, ultimately leading to increased social inclusion for individuals with IDD.

Keywords:

• Developmental disabilities
• disability inclusion
• intellectual disabilities
• measurement
• social inclusion

Acknowledgment

No funding sources to disclose.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Funding

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Valerie Miller

Valerie Miller is an assistant professor in the Master of Occupational Therapy Program at the University of Cincinnati. Her expertise is in pediatric occupational therapy with a research emphasis on social inclusion for children with disabilities.

Kelly Leigers

Kelly Leigers is currently residing in Germany assisting various nonprofit organizations associated with designing activities, providing resources for, and locating safe living accommodations for refugees in need. She is a former assistant professor at Eastern Kentucky University and is a graduate of the University of Kentucky Rehabilitation Sciences doctoral program.

Dana Howell

Dana Howell is a Foundation Professor and Chair of the Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy at Eastern Kentucky University. She is the founding editor of the Journal of Occupational Therapy Education. Her research interests include allied health education and rehabilitation.

Patrick Kitzman

Patrick Kitzman is a Professor in the University of Kentucky Physical Therapy Program with 23 years of clinical and teaching experience in the treatment of individuals affected by neurological conditions. He serves as the Director of the community-based Kentucky Appalachian Rural Rehabilitation Network and Appalachian Center of Assistive Technology.

Melinda Ault

Melinda Ault is a professor of special education at the University of Kentucky. Her area of expertise is in learners with extensive support needs. Her research interests are in systematic instruction, communication, technology applications, and inclusion and participation of persons with disabilities in their faith communities.