Communication Aids in Therapy
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The Use of Communication Aids in Psychological Settings for People with Learning Disabilities: A Grounded Theory
IRAS ID
347281
Contact name
Zoe Barr
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Canterbury Christ Church University, Salomons Centre for Applied Psychology
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 1 months, 28 days
Research summary
It is estimated that around 1-3% of the general population have some degree of learning disability and these people are at higher risk of abuse and mental health difficulties than the general population. Many people with learning disabilities also have difficulties with communication, research shows these people are also at higher risk of psychological distress.
Some people with communication difficulties use communication aids. These can be as a primary method of communication or to support natural speech. Communication aids range from printed choice boards of symbols for individuals to point to, to sign language, to text-to-speech technology. Many traditional psychological therapies are highly reliant on a level of spoken communication between therapist and client, creating a barrier for people who have difficulties with natural speech and use communication aids.
The study aims to create a theoretical model to describe how communication aid use impacts the delivery of psychological care for people with learning difficulties.
Data will be collected through semi structured interviews with people with a learning disability who use communication aids and psychological professionals who have worked with these people. Some carers may also be interviewed if a person with learning disabilities asks for them to be involved in their interview. Interviews will be audio and visually recorded for transcription of spoken language and communication aid use.
Data will be analysed using a Charmazian grounded theory approach. The responses will be coded and grouped into themes. These themes will then be used to create a theory to explain how communication aid use impacts the delivery of psychological care for people with learning difficulties. Best practice guidance for psychologists working with these people will also be created.
REC name
Wales REC 4
REC reference
25/WA/0105
Date of REC Opinion
13 May 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion