What characteristics do service users with intellectual disability value in direct support staff within residential forensic services?

Clarkson, Rachael, Murphy, Glynis H, Coldwell, Jon B and Dawson, David L (2009) What characteristics do service users with intellectual disability value in direct support staff within residential forensic services? Journal of Intellectual and Development Disability, 34 (4). pp. 283-289. ISSN 1366-8250

Full content URL: http://informahealthcare.com/toc/jid/34/4

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Abstract

Background This study explores the perceptions of a group of adults with intellectual disability regarding direct support staff.
Method Semi-structured interviews relating to experiences of direct support staff were developed from two focus
groups. These interviews were conducted with 11 adults with intellectual disability residing within a forensic inpatient
service.
Results Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) revealed two superordinate themes; namely, staff relationship
factors and positive and negative attributes of staff. The participants valued relationships with staff based on
qualities such as honesty, trust, and a caring, nurturing manner that enabled individuals to feel safe. Staff characteristics
such as immaturity, inexperience, and a short temper appeared to lead to feelings of discontentment amongst the
participants.
Conclusions The implications of the findings are discussed in relation to clinical practice, staff recruitment, and training.

Keywords:Intellectual disability, Secure services, forensic, Service User Views
Subjects:C Biological Sciences > C800 Psychology
C Biological Sciences > C810 Applied Psychology
C Biological Sciences > C840 Clinical Psychology
Divisions:College of Social Science > School of Psychology
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ID Code:2812
Deposited On:07 Jul 2010 14:30

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