Living with others with behaviours that challenge: experiences and perceptions of adults with intellectual disabilities

Abstract

Background

This study explored the experiences of people with intellectual disabilities who live with others who display behaviours that challenge. Previous research has focused on the impact of behaviours that challenge on staff and families but less is known about the effect it has on service-users.

Method

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six participants who were recruited from a service specialising in the management of behaviours that challenge. Data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.

Results

Four superordinate themes were identified: the emotional impact of others’ behaviours that challenge; participants’ perceptions of behaviours that challenge; participants’ own experiences engaging in behaviours that challenge; and things that help. Sub-themes were also identified under each superordinate theme.

Conclusions

People with an intellectual disability are knowledgeable about behaviours that challenge, have insight into potential causes, and can offer suggestions as to what might help. Results were discussed in relation to clinical implications and methodological strengths.

IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION

• Living with others who engage in behaviours that challenge has a significant impact on the well-being of people with an intellectual disability.

• People with an intellectual disability need to be empowered through inclusion in the decisions that concern them, especially in relation to their living circumstances.

• This is vital in order to improve the quality of life and mental well-being, enhance opportunities for skill development and promote independence.

Keywords:

• Behaviours that challenge
• behaviours of concern
• intellectual disability
• lived experiences
• residential settings

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank the participants for sharing their experiences.

Disclosure statement

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