Inclusive research: making a difference to policy and legislation

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Disability Studies
• Qualitative Research Methods

Background:

• Inclusive research with people with intellectual disabilities (ID) presents a dichotomy between empowering research processes and achieving tangible social change.
• This paper examines the impact of two qualitative inclusive research studies in Australia and Ireland on policy and legislation concerning individuals with ID.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore how inclusive research involving people with intellectual disabilities can influence policy and legislation.
• To investigate the added value of including individuals with ID as researchers in qualitative studies.
• To understand the transition of inclusive research into advocacy for social change.

Main Methods:

• Employed qualitative methodologies, including life stories and focus groups, to investigate sexuality and relationships among people with ID.
• People with intellectual disabilities were active participants and co-researchers throughout both studies.
• Comparative analysis of two inclusive research projects conducted in Australia and the Republic of Ireland.

Main Results:

• Both studies highlighted significant challenges faced by people with intellectual disabilities in openly expressing their sexuality and forming adult relationships.
• Participants in the Australian study contributed to policy change, gaining partnership in research design and policy committees.
• In Ireland, research engagement led to advocacy for legal reform concerning the sexual rights of individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Conclusions:

• Inclusive research provides a platform for individuals with intellectual disabilities to voice their experiences and drive policy and legislative change.
• The active involvement of people with intellectual disabilities as researchers enhances the research process and its outcomes.
• Inclusive research can effectively shift towards advocacy, empowering participants to challenge existing policies and laws.