Author(s): Dr. Sharon Mc Manus, Dr. Brian Mc Guire, Dr. Meena O Neill
Department: NUIG in association with the Brothers of Charity, Galway , Ability (formerly Galway Association)
Keywords: Pain, CBT, Intellectual Disability
Reported: Preparations are in progress to publish this research.
(29 Jul 2009)
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective among
people who are experiencing chronic pain (Morley et al., 1999). The
current study sought to examine the feasibility of CBT among people
with ID. Five people, who were functioning within the mild-moderate
ranges of Intellectual Disability, received this intervention (eight
sessions). Carers were also asked to attend the intervention sessions.
The participant’s scores on a range of measures (self-efficacy, coping
strategies, knowledge and effectiveness of coping strategies) were
compared at the pre-intervention stage to the post-intervention stage
and again at a four-week follow-up point. The results indicated that
participants scores on knowledge, wellness-focused coping and
effectiveness of coping increased following the intervention. However,
these gains were not maintained at the follow-up measurement point. The
intervention did not have the predicted effect on self-efficacy. A
qualitative component was also included in the current study in order
to explore in more depth the experience of taking part in a CBT
intervention. The majority of participants reported that they were
positive about taking part in the intervention. However, a number of
negative experiences were also reported. Recommendations for future
research are discussed.