Adapting photovoice to explore identity expression amongst people with intellectual disabilities who have limited or no verbal communication

Abstract

Background: Inclusive research requires adapting methodologies to meet the needsof people with all degrees of intellectual disabilities. However, it must also balancethis with the requirements of academic research. Building from previous research astudy was completed to illustrate how photovoice could not only be adapted to meetthe needs of people with intellectual disabilities who have limited or no verbal communicationbut to also explore how they express their identity.Methods: A qualitative multiple case study method was used to explore identity expressionamongst three participants with intellectual disabilities and limited or noverbal communication. The methodology integrated ethnographic observations,photovoice and interview techniques.Findings: Integrating the ethnographic observations, photovoice and interview techniquesoffered families and carers the opportunity to become curious about participants'identities, and this methodology was considered valuable in getting to knowmore about the person.Conclusions: It is hoped that through conducting research that directly involvespeople with intellectual disabilities, more creative and inclusive methods can be explored,verified and applied across various research contexts.