Exploring Calming Activities for Intellectually and Developmentally Disabled Adults

Wailes, Rachelle; Nakahara, Anish; Piziak, Malvina

Student Work

Exploring Calming Activities for Intellectually and Developmentally Disabled Adults

Public

The purpose of this project was to analyze existing coping strategies and modify them for use by adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DDs) to help cope with abuse related trauma. Limited research has been done to help adults with I/DDs respond to abuse, and many current tools created for response fail to incorporate the voices of those with I/DDs. Our research contains three studies addressing this research gap. Study 1 analyzed transcripts from interviews previously conducted with individuals to learn what existing calming activities are known to help adults with I/DDs cope with trauma. Study 2 analyzed previously conducted interviews where adults with I/DDs piloted an application prototype containing two calming activities, and suggested improvements to increase understanding of and engagement in calming activities. Study 3 involved a focus group with three consultants providing feedback on our application prototype focusing exclusively on calming activities. All studies highlighted that incorporating a) a diversity of interactive calming activities across four categories: creative, identity-based, social, and movement, b) a wide range of accessibility controls, c) vibrant colors, d) instruction visuals, and e) using plain language were essential to creating accessible and well-liked coping strategies for adults with I/DDs. Findings emphasize a need for more tools helping adults with I/DDs self-advocate. These findings are important for employers who are tasked with providing equitable workspaces and for those part of support communities for I/DD individuals.

This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

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