People with intellectual disabilities (ID) : experience of detention under the Mental Health Act (1983).

BACKGROUND: Fundamental to the development of research knowledge are
studies establishing user views and experiences of service delivery. However, currently
there are no published studies providing insight into the experience of detention for
people with intellectual disability.
SPECIFIC AIMS: This study explores the experiences of people with intellectual
disability of detention under the Mental Health Act (1983). The study seeks to provide
insight into their perceptions of the act of detention and associated emotional responses.
METHOD: Transcripts of semi-structured one to one interviews (N=7) were
analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Participants had mild-moderate
ID and been detained under the Mental Health Act. All participants had been
detained in the 2-year period, prior to the study.
FINDINGS: Four themes common across participants were identified: (a). 'perception
of self in the world'; (b). 'a negative event', (c). emotional response to the act of
detention; and finally Cd). family relationships. A number of valuable insights emerged
including: the impact of perceived lack of control over self and experiences of
vulnerability, powerlessness and victimisation, both prior to, and following the act of
detention; participants' sense of care Vs punishment; the development of 'role' within
the system and attribution of blame.
DISCUSSION: This study expands the current literature regarding the experiences of
people with intellectual disabilities from their perspective, the emotional impact of
traumatic experiences and differences in coping styles: Ideas for future research are also
provided.