Sharing the stage: Inclusion theater programming, social participation, and quality of life

IF 2.9 2区医学 Q1 EDUCATION, SPECIAL

Research in Developmental Disabilities Pub Date : 2025-03-23 DOI:10.1016/j.ridd.2025.104982

Karen Whisenhunt Saar , Monica Kaniamattam , Hannah Huff

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Background

Social participation is a crucial Quality of Life (QoL) factor. Inclusion theater programming allows rehabilitation providers to collaborate with arts professionals to provide rich, authentic, inclusive therapeutic experiences for individuals with communication disorders secondary to intellectual and developmental disabilities and neurodivergence.

Methods

Qualitative thematic analysis was used to examine semi-structured interviews with five parents of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) or neurodivergence regarding their child’s participation in an inclusion theater program.

Results

Parents described a typical social landscape that discourages social participation for neurodivergent children and children and adolescents with IDD. They appreciated the structure of this inclusion theater program, which they contrasted with their child's everyday reality. They described that both program design and personnel supported individualized learning. Perceived benefits included development of friendships and a sense of belonging within a community, along with encouraging demonstrations of confidence and self-advocacy. While this opportunity was held up to contrast their everyday social reality of exclusion and bullying, parents found this singular annual program insufficient. They pledged to advocate for better community education to expand inclusion opportunities.

Discussion

Social participation, a key QoL element, was observed by parents of children engaged in this inclusion theater program and credited for perceived positive benefits. Parents believed that the structure of the program promoted learning and skill growth, increases in personal factors such as confidence and self-advocacy, along with development of community, and a sense of responsibility that empowered the children. Success experienced in such programming can lead parents and children to try more mainstream opportunities.

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来源期刊

Research in Developmental Disabilities Multiple-

CiteScore

5.50

自引率

6.50%

发文量

178

期刊介绍： Research In Developmental Disabilities is aimed at publishing original research of an interdisciplinary nature that has a direct bearing on the remediation of problems associated with developmental disabilities. Manuscripts will be solicited throughout the world. Articles will be primarily empirical studies, although an occasional position paper or review will be accepted. The aim of the journal will be to publish articles on all aspects of research with the developmentally disabled, with any methodologically sound approach being acceptable.