An Evaluation of an Emotion Regulation Programme for People with an Intellectual Disability

• Published in: Therapeutic communities 2014-09, Vol.35 (3), p.105-118
• Main Authors: McWilliams, Jenna Louise, de Terte, Ian, Leathem, Janet
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0964-1866; 0964-1866
• DOI: 10.1108/TC-02-2014-0003

Purpose The aim of the study was to examine the effectiveness of the Transformers programme on individual’s use of appropriate emotion regulation strategies. Design/methodology/approach Five people with an intellectual disability participated in the Transformers programme and took part in the current study. The intervention was evaluated using the Profile of Anger Coping Skills and incident reports. The Profile of Anger Coping Skills was completed by participants and their caregivers. Findings The majority of participants demonstrated increases in self- and caregiver-reported use of appropriate emotion regulation strategies following their involvement in the Transformers programme. However, treatment gains were not always maintained at follow-up. Three of the participants also exhibited fewer incidents of challenging behaviour after taking part in the programme. Originality/value Overall, the results provide preliminary support for the continued use of the Transformers programme with people with an intellectual disability who have emotion regulation difficulties. It is recommended that further research be carried out with a larger sample size, a control group, and longer follow-up period.