A model of processes that underpin positive relationships for adults with severe intellectual disability

Abstract

A relationship model with clearly identified processes and sub-elements provides a framework for teaching others how to have positive relationships with people with severe intellectual disability. The model could be applied in training to support relationships between workers and people with a disability and more widely with other community members.

Supporting end of life decision making: Case studies of relational closeness in supported decision making for people with severe or profound intellectual disability

“…These historical expressions of preference were used to guide Neil's circle of support in making a collective decision that they thought reflected his will and preference. Griffiths & Smith, 2016;Johnson, 2012). The current study's findings not only highlight the importance of relational closeness between people with severe or profound intellectual disability and their supporters, but also provide some insights into what these relationships should look like.…”

“…As highlighted by Johnson and her colleagues, there is a lack of understanding of the mechanics of relationship building for people with severe intellectual disability (Johnson, Bigby, Iacono, Douglas, & Katthagen, ). This lack of understanding extends to the mechanics of relationships for people with profound intellectual disability (Dobson, Upadhyaya, & Stanley, ; Griffiths & Smith, ; Johnson, ). The current study's findings not only highlight the importance of relational closeness between people with severe or profound intellectual disability and their supporters, but also provide some insights into what these relationships should look like.…”

Attuning: A Communication Process between People with Severe and Profound Intellectual Disability and Their Interaction Partners

“…The importance of routines in providing a context for social interaction has also been noted by Johnson et al . ().…”

“…The importance of such close and familiar communication partnerships is echoed in the work of Johnson et al . ().…”

Intensive Interaction Training for Paid Carers: ‘Looking, Looking and Find Out When They Want to Relate to You’

“…Johnson et al . () identified five processes which underpin positive support worker and family relationships with individuals with severe intellectual disability, including ‘sharing the moment’ which encapsulates aforementioned ‘having fun’ as well as ‘hanging out’. The other four processes are ‘recognizing individuality’, ‘connecting’, ‘feeling good’ and ‘sharing the message’.…”