Friendship, Quality of Life, and People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Abstract

People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) often have fewer opportunities to create and maintain friendships. In fact, it is not uncommon for people with IDD to consider their paid staff friends, which is problematic given high staff turnover and a lack of reciprocity, a key element of friendship. The aim of this study is to explore the relationships between friendship and quality of life of people with IDD. We had two main research questions: 1) what factors predict people with IDD having friends (outcomes present)?; and, 2) how does having friends (outcomes present) impact the quality of life of people with IDD? To do so, this study analyzed Personal Outcome Measures® interviews data from approximately 1300 people with IDD exploring the relationships between friendship and factors at individual, organizational, and societal levels. Findings revealed friendship predicts improved outcomes in almost every area of one’s life; as such, it is critical to promote the development, maintenance, and growth of friendship of people with IDD. To do so, organizations need to make it best practice to facilitate the friendships of the people they serve. Systemic issues also need to be addressed in order to promote the friendships of people with IDD.