Epidemiology of self-injurious behaviour in adults with learning disabilities

1998 ◽  
Vol 173 (5) ◽  
pp. 428-432 ◽  
Author(s):  
Richard A. Collacott ◽  
Sally-Ann Cooper ◽  
David Branford ◽  
Catherine McGrother
Keyword(s):  
Learning Disabilities ◽  
Epidemiological Studies ◽  
Physical Status ◽  
Developmental Quotient ◽  
Explanatory Variables ◽  
Hearing Status ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Adults With Learning Disabilities ◽  
Autistic Symptoms ◽  
Maladaptive Behaviours

BackgroundThere have been few epidemiological studies of the disabling and poorly understood disorder self-injurious behaviour among adults with learning disabilities.MethodInterviews were undertaken with the carers of adults known to the Leicestershire Learning Disabilities Register (n=2277). The Disability Assessment Schedule was used and information was also collected on demographic characteristics, developmental and physical status.ResultsSelf-injurious behaviour was present in 17.4% of the population. In 1.7% self-injurious behaviour occurred frequently and was severe. There was no gender difference between those with and without self-injurious behaviour. Both the chronological age and developmental quotient of individuals with self-injurious behaviour were lower than those of individuals without self-injurious behaviour. Autistic symptoms were more common among those with self-injurious behaviour. The association of self-injurious behaviour with a wide range of other maladaptive behaviours was highly significant. Logistic regression analysis retained age, developmental quotient, hearing status, immobility and number of autistic symptoms as explanatory variables for self-injurious behaviour.ConclusionsSelf-injurious behaviour is a prevalent and disabling disorder among adults with learning disabilities.

Prevalence and Cluster Typology of Maladaptive Behaviours in a Geographically Defined Population of Adults with Learning Disabilities

1996 ◽  
Vol 169 (2) ◽  
pp. 219-227 ◽  
Author(s):  
Susan Smith ◽  
David Branford ◽  
Richard A. Collacott ◽  
Sally-Ann Cooper ◽  
Catherine McGrother
Keyword(s):  
Learning Disabilities ◽  
Age Groups ◽  
Face Validity ◽  
Behavioural Characteristics ◽  
High Prevalence ◽  
Adults With Learning Disabilities ◽  
Autistic Symptoms ◽  
Severe Degree ◽  
Property Destruction ◽  
Maladaptive Behaviours

BackgroundMaladaptive behaviours are frequently present in individuals with learning disabilities; however, their prevalence varies between studies and the aetiology, classification and most appropriate management of such behaviours remain unclear. The aims of the study were twofold: firstly to determine the prevalence of maladaptive behaviours, and secondly to develop a classification typology.MethodA population of 2202 adults with learning disabilities was surveyed to determine the prevalence of maladaptive behaviours. These were subjected on the basis of 13 behavioural characteristics to cluster analysis. The clusters were further examined in respect of secondary variables.ResultsOver 60% of individuals demonstrated the presence of at least one maladaptive behaviour and in 40% this problem was of either severe degree or frequent occurrence. Men were more likely to demonstrate physical aggression, property destruction, tantrums and verbal abuse than women. Although some severe maladaptive behaviours diminished with age, many persisted through all age groups. Six behavioural clusters were devised which demonstrated face validity and which differed in respect of demographic and developmental variables, and the prevalence of maladaptive habits and autistic symptoms.ConclusionsThese findings demonstrate a high prevalence of maladaptive behaviours and ‘objectionable habits’ among people with learning disabilities. A classification of behavioural symptoms may be possible on the basis of symptom clusters.

Behaviour phenotype for Down's syndrome

1998 ◽  
Vol 172 (1) ◽  
pp. 85-89 ◽  
Author(s):  
Richard A. Collacott ◽  
Sally-Ann Cooper ◽  
David Branford ◽  
Catherine McGrother
Keyword(s):  
Cluster Analysis ◽  
Learning Disabilities ◽  
Geographical Area ◽  
Down's Syndrome ◽  
Age Groups ◽  
Down’S Syndrome ◽  
Developmental Quotient ◽  
Behavioural Characteristics ◽  
Adults With Learning Disabilities ◽  
Maladaptive Behaviours

BackgroundFor more than a century, the idea of particular personality/behavioural characteristics being associated with people with Down's syndrome has been explored, but with inconclusive results.MethodThe Disability Assessment Schedule was used to ascertain the behavioural profiles of 360 adults with Down's syndrome and 1829 adults with learning disabilities of other aetiologies, who were the whole identified population within a defined geographical area. Comparison was made between the two total groups and additionally for the subgroups aged < 35 years and aged ⩾35 years. Comparison was also made with regards to cluster analysis findings.ResultsDespite an equal age and developmental quotient, the Down's syndrome group were less likely to demonstrate maladaptive behaviours. The behaviour characteristics of the adults with Down's syndrome remained constant in the younger and older age groups. Cluster analysis demonstrated adults with Down's syndrome to have an increased prevalence in cluster groupings with lower rates of maladaptive behaviours.ConclusionsThis study confirms there to be a behaviour phenotype among adults with Down's syndrome. The reasons for this (e.g. genetic/psychological/social) require further research. Such research may establish a better understanding of the aetiologies of maladaptive behaviours among people with learning disabilities in general.

The World is Alive! Music Therapy with Adults with Learning Disabilities

2015 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tessa Watson
Keyword(s):  
Learning Disabilities ◽  
Music Therapy ◽  
Challenging Behavior ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Cognitive Disability ◽  
Music Therapists ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Adults With Learning Disabilities ◽  
History Of ◽  
End Of Life Issues

This chapter describes music therapy work with adults with learning disabilities. This group of people have a cognitive disability that will not change, bringing with it challenges to living a fulfilled and satisfying life and sometimes associated health issues. A wide range of issues, from severe communication problems, bereavement, mental health problems, challenging behavior, to end-of-life issues require music therapists to bring a wide range of skills and approaches to their work. This chapter presents the diagnosis and history of this population, and the history of music therapy work in the area. The process of therapy is described, treatment models, and methods considered and clinical examples given.

Autistic traits in adults with learning disabilities

1997 ◽  
Vol 170 (6) ◽  
pp. 502-506 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sabyasachi Bhaumik ◽  
David Branford ◽  
Catherine McGrother ◽  
Catherine Thorp
Keyword(s):  
Learning Disabilities ◽  
Autistic Traits ◽  
Learning Disabled ◽  
Population Based ◽  
Service Planning ◽  
Adults With Learning Disabilities ◽  
Maladaptive Behaviours ◽  
Relationship Of ◽  
Challenging Behaviours ◽  
The Relationship

BackgroundAlthough many adults with learning disabilities show features of autistic syndrome, there have been very few population-based studies. We explored the prevalence of autistic traits and their association with maladaptive behaviours in a geographically defined population of adults with learning disabilities.MethodThe carers of 220l adults with learning disabilities were interviewed, and information was sought concerning aspects of their behaviour and ability. Individuals were scored according to the number of core autistic traits displayed. The prevalence of autistic traits was examined in respect of aspects of behaviour and ability.ResultsAutistic traits were common among adults with learning disabilities. Those with a higher number of autistic traits were more likely to be profoundly learning disabled and demonstrate awide range of challenging behaviours.ConclusionsMany adults with learning disabilities demonstrate autistic traits. The relationship of autistic traits with challenging behaviour has major implications in service planning and delivery.

scholarly journals Specialist community teams for adults with learning disabilities: referrals to a countywide service in England

2019 ◽  
Vol 24 (2) ◽  
pp. 41-49
Author(s):  
Isabel C.H. Clare ◽  
Kelly A. Wade ◽  
Nadine Ranke ◽  
Sarah Whitson ◽  
Alison Lillywhite ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Learning Disabilities ◽  
Living Arrangements ◽  
Care Management ◽  
Social Care ◽  
Care Staff ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Integrated Health ◽  
Adults With Learning Disabilities ◽  
The Uk

Purpose While “generic” community teams for adults with learning disabilities (CTs) are well-established in the UK, very little recent evidence is available about any aspect of their work. As part of a larger project about the role, structure and functioning of CTs, the purpose of this paper is to provide data about referrals. Design/methodology/approach Over three months, the authors obtained data about 270 consecutive new referrals to five CTs in a countywide integrated health (NHS) and care management (local authority) service. Findings The 270 referrals related to 255 individuals, mainly already service users, with almost a third (30 per cent, n=204) described as people with severe or profound disabilities. Consistent with the reported living arrangements (residential accommodation or with one or more family members (87 per cent, n=270)), referrals were most often made by social care staff, General Practitioners or carers. The referrals related to a wide range of issues including mental health and/or behavioural needs, physical health and skills, and independence. The major group, however, were requests about a person’s entitlement to specialist learning disability services and/or reviews of an existing social care package. Research limitations/implications The focus on new referrals and the exclusion of intra-team referrals mean that the data are not representative of a CT’s caseload and cannot be used as a basis for resourcing. Nevertheless, the findings emphasise the heterogeneity of the population, and the long-term and varied nature of their needs, meaning that CTs require access to a range of expertise and, often, an inter-agency approach. The implications for service design are considered. Originality/value This is the first empirical study of referrals to specialist integrated (health and care management) community learning disabilities teams in England.

Behaviour disorders in adults with learning disabilities: Effect of age and differentiation from other psychiatric disorders

1998 ◽  
Vol 15 (1) ◽  
pp. 13-18 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sally-Ann Cooper
Keyword(s):  
Learning Disabilities ◽  
Psychiatric Disorders ◽  
Psychiatric Illness ◽  
Challenging Behaviour ◽  
Behaviour Disorder ◽  
Younger Adults ◽  
Behavioural Assessment ◽  
Adults With Learning Disabilities ◽  
Maladaptive Behaviours ◽  
Effect Of Age

AbstractObjective: To clarify the effect of age on behaviour disorders in adults with learning disabilities, and the differentiation of behaviour disorders from other psychiatric disorders.Method: Detailed assessments, measuring maladaptive behaviours, psychiatric disorders and demographic factors were completed on 93.7% of all people with learning disabilities aged 65 years and over, living in Leicestershire, UK (n = 134), and also a random sample of adults with learning disabilities aged 20-64 years (n = 73). Behaviour disorders were distinguished from other psychiatric disorders. Descriptive and inferential statistics were calculated.Result: Equal rates (15%) and types of behaviour disorder were found in the two groups. The presence of behaviour disorder was associated with the severity of learning disabilities, but age was not associated, and nor was presence of epilepsy or gender. In many cases, positive scores on the behavioural assessment, which carers attributed to challenging behaviour/ behaviour disorder, were actually symptoms of psychiatric illness.Conclusion: Behaviour disorders persist into old age, and therefore require management from the appropriate services. This need will increase, due to increasing lifespan. The accurate interpretation of behaviour scales requires that a comprehensive psychiatric assessment is also undertaken, particularly in elderly people where rates of psychiatric disorders are higher than for younger adults.

Anxiety and Social Adjustment Problems in Adults With Learning Disabilities

2011 ◽  
Author(s):  
Philip J. Uy ◽  
Ren Krinick ◽  
Lana A. Tiersky ◽  
Nuri Ruzi ◽  
Mitchell Slugh
Keyword(s):  
Learning Disabilities ◽  
Social Adjustment ◽  
Adjustment Problems ◽  
Adults With Learning Disabilities
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