Living in localities: examining the main theoretical/conceptual frameworks and measurement scales of social inclusion in neighbourhoods of adults with intellectual disabilities. A systematic review Authors- G.Boland, E. De Paor and S. Guerin- UCD Centre for Disability Studies, St. Michael's House , UCD School of Psychology.

Issued on October 4 2019

Living in localities: examining the main theoretical/conceptual frameworks and measurement scales of social inclusion in neighbourhoods of adults with intellectual disabilities. A systematic review

1. Boland¹, E. De Paor² and S. Guerin³

¹UCD Centre for Disability Studies, University College Dublin, Ireland; ²St. Michael's House Intellectual Disability Services, Ireland; ³UCD Centre for Disability Studies, UCD School of Psychology, Ireland

Introduction: Despite extensive research on quality of life, a focus on neighbourhood participation and belonging is relatively recent for adults with intellectual disabilities (ID). This systematic review synthesises published research (2000–2017).

Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a structured search was completed of six commonly used academic databases in ID research on social inclusion. Using pre‐agreed inclusion/exclusion criteria, three researchers reviewed all abstracts (n = 3587). Data were extracted from included studies (n = 80) on: 1) original conceptual frameworks; and 2) key features of assessment tools measuring levels of participation.

Results: Six original models/conceptual frameworks were identified on social inclusion. Analysis of their components led to a proposed new definition of neighbourhood participation. Measuring local participation was a feature of eight empirical studies, using one of six scales/assessment tools. Patterns in, and limitations of how local participation has been measured were identified.

Implications: This review assembles the models/conceptual frameworks on social inclusion and proposes a definition of neighbourhood participation of adults with ID. The scales/assessment tools available to researchers are documented and recommendations for further research are made. This review highlights the complex interplay of factors that influence neighbourhood engagement. Its findings serve to guide service providers on efficient use of resources to support local participation.

Keywords neighbourhood participation, social inclusion, theoretical/ conceptual models, scale/ assessment tools