The Subjective Experiences of People with an Intellectual Disability and Diagnosis of Schizophrenia Who are Detained in a Medium Secure Unit

Abstract

Background  This paper examines the experiences of people with intellectual disabilities, in secure care, with a diagnosis of schizophrenia. The paper specifically looks at the perceptions of the participants in relation to their diagnosis and experience of psychosis.Method  Eleven adults with intellectual disabilities in a medium secure unit were interviewed about their experiences and understanding of their diagnosis of schizophrenia and symptoms of psychosis. The transcripts were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA).Results  Three Superordinate themes were evident within the data as well as several subthemes; (i) reality of symptoms (voices as controlling/malevolent, symptoms as a real lived experience); (ii) making sense/a search for meaning (normalization, religious/spiritual explanation, psychotic symptoms as a sign of illness) and (iii) Perceptions of being labelled.Conclusion  The results highlighted that people with intellectual disabilities hold multiple frameworks in understanding both their diagnosis of schizophrenia and the associated symptoms of psychosis. The findings provide further insight into the experiences of people with intellectual disabilities, specifically those detained within a medium secure unit. The clinical implications are discussed in terms of developing services and therapeutic approaches.