Participant experiences of Fearless Me! ©: Cognitive behaviour therapy for anxiety in children with intellectual disabilities

Abstract

Research shows that almost half of children with intellectual disabilities (ID) experience mental ill-health at any given time point. However, traditional cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) may not be appropriate for children with ID due to the cognitive deficits associated with their diagnosis. The Fearless Me! © CBT program for anxiety is adapted to accommodate the cognitive abilities of children with ID. The aim of the current study was to provide the first qualitative evaluation of the Fearless Me! © program by exploring participant experiences. Eight mother–child dyads were interviewed using a semi-structured protocol. The responses were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. Identified codes and themes were cross-checked with an independent researcher and discrepancies were resolved. Parents found the program to be positive and useful for acquiring knowledge. They commented on features of the program, significance of inter- and intra-personal factors and whether the program suited the capability of their child. They also discussed features of treatment outcomes. The qualitative results highlighted that experiences of the program varied. Themes identified included those relating to barriers and facilitators to participation and treatment-related change. The themes provide guidance for program revisions and can inform future delivery of the Fearless Me! © program.