Tensions between risk, coping and support: young people with intellectual disability in Sweden and Internet-related support

Abstract

Young people with intellectual disability seem to be more vulnerable on the Internet than youth in general. Therefore, it is important to investigate not only their strategies for managing negative online experiences but also how they experience Internet-related support. This study applies a qualitative and interpretative approach drawing on individual and pair interviews with pupils in upper secondary special programme schools in Sweden. A thematic analysis resulted in the following themes: ‘a lesson to be learned’, ‘the important role of siblings’, ‘the dilemma of support’ and ‘negotiation of control’. With regard to negative online experiences, strategies for managing privacy, safety and risky situations are understood as problem-focused coping and efforts to manage external/internal demands. The central role of social networks is emphasised with regard to Internet-related support. It is concluded that online restrictions may discourage open dialogue. A perspective of positive risk-taking, focusing on opportunities rather than risks, is advocated. Points of interest This article investigates the participants’ perspectives in their own words. The key contribution of the paper is finding out how young people with intellectual disability in Sweden handle negative online experiences and how they experience Internet-related support. The study highlights a range of themes from lessons learned and sibling relationships to problems of support and control that reflect many social and individual characteristics. The participants use different coping strategies to handle negative online experiences. They seem to manage privacy and safety on their own and refuse control in risky situations. With regard to Internet-related support, the participants prefer turning to their social network (family and friends) rather than public authorities (teachers in school). This type of research is important because it focuses on young people with intellectual disability and their vulnerability online as well as the development opportunities for Internet-related support.