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Problem behavior and psychiatric impairment within a developmentally disabled population. III: Psychotropic
1Planning Unit, New York State Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities, Albany 12229-1000.
Research in Developmental Disabilities
|January 1, 1988
Summary
Psychotropic medication use is higher in adults with developmental disabilities, especially those with severe behaviors or psychiatric conditions. Factors like residential setting and diagnostic category influence prescription rates.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Disabilities Research
- Psychiatric Impairment Studies
- Behavioral Health Services
Background:
- This study is the third in a series examining problem behavior and psychiatric impairment in individuals with developmental disabilities.
- A large population of 35,000 individuals receiving developmental disabilities services was analyzed.
- Understanding psychotropic medication use is crucial for effective care in this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the rates of psychotropic medication receipt among individuals with developmental disabilities.
- To identify factors associated with higher psychotropic medication use.
- To explore variations in medication receipt based on age, behavioral severity, residential setting, and psychiatric diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of a large dataset (35,000 individuals) from developmental disabilities services.
- Comparison of psychotropic medication receipt rates across different age groups.
- Statistical examination of the correlation between medication use and factors such as mental retardation severity, residential restrictiveness, problem behaviors, and psychiatric impairment.
Main Results:
- Young and middle-aged adults received psychotropic medication at higher rates than children, adolescents, or the elderly.
- Medication receipt increased with greater severity of mental retardation, problem behaviors, and psychiatric impairment.
- The restrictiveness of the residential setting was a significant predictor of higher psychotropic medication use.
Conclusions:
- Psychotropic medication use in individuals with developmental disabilities is influenced by age, behavioral challenges, and psychiatric conditions.
- Residential setting restrictiveness and psychiatric diagnostic category are key factors associated with medication prescription.
- Future research should consider clinical and social aspects of care settings and the decision-making roles of healthcare professionals.
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