Experiences of Positive Family Connections for Families of Children With Intellectual Disabilities
Author Information
Author(s): Daniel Sutherland, Samantha Flynn, Joanna Griffin, Richard P. Hastings
Primary Institution: Centre for Research in Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (CIDD) University of Warwick
Hypothesis
What are programme recipients' and facilitators' experiences of Positive Family Connections?
Conclusion
Positive Family Connections appears to be an acceptable programme which programme recipients and facilitators perceive to be beneficial.
Supporting Evidence
- Facilitators' lived experience enhanced peer support and added credibility to the programme.
- Participants reported reduced isolation and improved wellbeing.
- Many participants valued the positive approach of the programme.
- Peer support was a critical component of the programme's value.
- Participants described changes in family relationships as a result of improved wellbeing.
Takeaway
The Positive Family Connections programme helps families of children with disabilities feel better and connect with each other.
Methodology
Semi-structured interviews with eight family carers and nine facilitators, analyzed using framework analysis.
Potential Biases
The research team's involvement in developing the programme may have introduced biases into the analysis.
Limitations
The study struggled to recruit a diverse sample of programme recipients and may reflect a biased perspective.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 8 family carers, all female, with children aged 8-13 with developmental disabilities.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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