Exploring the social networks of people with intellectual disability who live in Individual Supported Living arrangements—A multiple case study

Abstract

Research on social networks of people with intellectual disability has mostly focused on comparisons between people living in congregate settings and in the community. Individual Supported Living (ISL) describes arrangements where people live in a home of their choice with the support they require. Individualised forms of housing provide greater opportunity for community connection, however, many people with intellectual disability experience loneliness and exclusion, with family and paid staff as key social network members. Ecological models as well as social capital theory have emerged to examine social relationships of people with intellectual disability. Using Bronfenbrenner’s Process-Person-Context-Time (PPCT) model and social capital theory as a theoretical lens, this study explores how people with intellectual disability and members of their social network describe and experience relationships. Using a multiple case study design underpinned by constructivist epistemology, the study comprised four case studies. Data were collected using an adapted version of the Social Network Guide (Forrester-Jones, 1998; Forrester-Jones & Duplock, 2006), semi-structured interviews, and field notes. Case report data were analysed qualitatively using open and axial coding. Each case yielded rich insight into the four focal participants relationships, from their own perspective as well as members of their social network. Using selective coding, the cross-case analysis identified nine overarching themes that led to the development of a proposed model, entitled Attaining Social Connection Within an Ecological Framework. Aligning key findings with the PPCT model and social capital theory, a multidimensional model traversing individual, interactional and environmental factors was proposed. Findings highlighted that a key factor in attaining social connection was through intentional facilitation from family and other network members, described by the term social brokerage. Findings and recommendations contribute to ongoing research about how people with intellectual disability and their families/supporters can facilitate and maintain meaningful social connection.