An exploration of the meaning of 'hearing voices' and dreams for people with learning disabilities

The literature concerning outcomes of interventions for mental health difficulties in
people with learning disabilities was reviewed. This was discussed in terms of the quality
and quantity of available evidence and with reference to the state of research in the field.
Conclusions concerning the effectiveness of interventions were drawn. Gaps highlighting
the need for research were identified and ideas for future research topics and methodologies
explored.
A qualitative study was then conducted to explore the personal meanings of ‘voices’
and dreams for eight adults with learning disabilities based on semi-structured interviews.
Transcripts of these were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA)
and super-ordinate and sub-ordinate themes were drawn from the data. These were
discussed in terms of their implications for research and clinical practise. Conclusions were
drawn concerning similarities and differences to previous research findings and the clinical
implications of these explored. Future research was suggested to promote evidence based
practise.
Based on a research diary, a critical appraisal outlined the process of conducting the
research and highlighted issues learnt. The implications for how these experiences will
inform future practise were discussed.