Are narrative therapy groups effective for people with intellectual disabilities? A critical review of the literature

Purpose Narrative therapy has been suggested as particularly relevant to people with intellectual disability (ID), with group formats potentially offering additional benefits. This paper aims to critically review studies which evaluated narrative group interventions for people with ID. Design/methodology/approach The seven papers identified for review were critically appraised for their quality using a quality appraisal tool appropriate to their design, along with additional factors including adaptations made to improve accessibility. Findings The studies suggest that there may be some small benefits of narrative group therapy for those with ID. However, alongside issues limiting the studies’ evaluations, it is noted that the research paradigms used in the studies conflict with narrative approaches. Research limitations/implications The limited evidence base suggests the need for further research. The randomised controlled trial would ordinarily be seen as the gold standard for such research. However, narrative interventions may require a different approach to evaluation. Originality/value This is the first review of published literature on the evaluation of narrative therapy groups for people with ID.