A behavioural description of meaningful moments of interaction between people with profound intellectual disabilities and support staff

Abstract

Background

It can be challenging for support staff to develop meaningful moments of interaction with people with profound intellectual disabilities. Gathering information on observable behaviour characterising such meaningful moments is expected to be beneficial.

Method

Three staff-client dyadic interactions were videotaped for 30 min. During reviewing the recording, staff members indicated which moments of interaction they experienced as meaningful. Per dyad, one meaningful moment was microanalytically coded via a developed coding system, and behaviourally described.

Results

The coding system reliably coded behaviour at the micro level. Exploratory results indicated that looking, movement and touching were most shown, and that staff displayed this behaviour more frequently than their clients. Both exhibited behaviours substantially more often during meaningful moments than at their onset.

Discussion

People with profound intellectual disabilities are more engaged during meaningful moments of interaction compared to at their onset. In daily practice, cultivating circumstances increasing their involvement is important.