How People With Intellectual or Development Disabilities Cope With Verbal Violence.

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Psychology
• Disability Studies

Background:

• Violence against people with disabilities is prevalent.
• Research on verbal violence towards individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) is scarce.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore how an intervention program can enhance understanding of verbal violence among people with IDD.
• To identify methods for improving the ability of people with IDD to handle verbal violence directed at them and by them.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative study involving an intervention program.
• 64 participants with mild IDD were divided into four groups for the program.
• Focus on understanding and handling verbal violence.

Main Results:

• Participants showed improved conceptualization of verbal violence.
• Key themes identified: differentiating good/bad, choosing responses, and helping others.
• Intervention strengthened self-efficacy and understanding of verbal violence.

Conclusions:

• People with IDD can learn to effectively handle verbal violence.
• Intervention promotes self-understanding, choice in reactions, and positive social impact.
• Findings contribute to knowledge on verbal violence and interventions for people with IDD.