Use of ICT by Intellectually Disabled Offenders: Qualitative Study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Exploring the unique barriers, enablers and risks associated with the use of ICT by Intellectually Disabled Offenders in Healthcare Settings: A Qualitative Study
IRAS ID
256334
Contact name
Mike Marriott
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Nottingham Trent University
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 7 months, 11 days
Research summary
Research Question: How do Intellectually Disabled Offenders Understand their Capabilities to use Information and Communications Technology?
Relevance: Although ICT training for ID individuals has suggested potential to support rehabilitation in this group, little is known about the risks, accessibility barriers and key provisions promoting ICT usage in the population of ID offenders in healthcare settings. By directly exploring the experiences of the group in question, we are aiming to improve the understanding of ways in which the ICT training can be implemented to support their rehabilitation.
Area of Study: In this study, the experiences of ID offenders will be understood through the application of the qualitative methodology. Participants will account for their experiences and understanding with regards to ICT, perceived barriers, enablers and risks associated with using modern technology while in rehabilitation. Data analysis will be guided by Braun and Clarke (2006) framework of Thematic Analysis. Findings from this patient-oriented research will help to inform the best practice in supporting ID offenders’ access to ICT.
Participants: An opportunistic sampling procedure will recruit up to ten men with a diagnosed intellectual disability, detained under a forensic section of the mental health act.
Site: The sample will be drawn entirely from a single site, which provides secure mental health services for intellectually disabled men under a forensic section of the mental health act. Sample size will be directly linked to the site’s caseload over the course of the project; as such, actual numbers recruited might be lower, as the unit in question has a relatively slow turnaround.
Process: All participants will take part in semi-structured interviews, supported by relevant communication aids. Participants will each take part in up to three interviews a week apart.
REC name
East Midlands - Nottingham 1 Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
19/EM/0009
Date of REC Opinion
12 Mar 2019
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion