Interpretive research and people with intellectual disabilities: Politics and practicalities

Abstract

There is a developing literature on qualitative research involving people with intellectual disabilities, yet specific methodological and theoretical guidelines for conducting such studies are limited. This paper is an effort to document the author's experiences as well as techniques used by other researchers in making research accessible and meaningful to participants with intellectual disabilities. The ethics, practicalities and political issues in interpretive studies are specifically addressed and suggestions for action are made with an emphasis on the empowerment and participation of people with intellectual disabilities.

Citation

Matysiak, B. (2001), "Interpretive research and people with intellectual disabilities: Politics and practicalities", Barnartt, S.N. and Altman, B.M. (Ed.) Exploring Theories and Expanding Methodologies: Where we are and where we need to go (Research in Social Science and Disability, Vol. 2), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 185-207. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1479-3547(01)80026-9