Challenging behaviours: Views and preferences of people with intellectual disabilities

Background Challenging behaviour is a common problem among people with ID and in services for people with ID. This paper aims to provide an overview of the views and preferences of people with ID on challenging behaviour. Method Semi-structured interviews were conducted with thirteen adults with mild to moderate ID and seven proxies (family or close associates of adults with ID who were unable to communicate and/or with severe or profound ID) in the Netherlands. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed thematically. Results People with ID and (a history of) challenging behaviour have clear views and preferences on factors related to challenging behaviour, assessments, non-pharmacological and pharmacological interventions and health professionals' approach. Conclusions The identified views and preferences of people with ID are not always in accordance with current procedures and treatments for challenging behaviour and should be included in future care processes and research.