Adapted Approach to Strengthening Connections for Youth with Intellectual and or Developmental Disabilities: Addressing Barriers to Implementation

Abstract

ABSTRACT Connections to supportive adults are essential to well-being for youth with intellectual and or developmental disabilities, yet few interventions have been developed to support connectedness among this population. The purpose of the current qualitative study was to identify strategies for overcoming barriers to implementation and fidelity for one of the few promising interventions developed to support these youth. In this article, we describe the adaptation and implementation of a family search and engagement model called Family Finding for Individuals with Intellectual and or Developmental Disabilities. We also present findings from our analysis of fidelity measures, participant discharge narratives, interviews with staff who administered the intervention, and youths’ other formal and informal supports. Findings pointed to strategies that helped workers overcome systemic, organizational, and individual-level barriers. We conclude this article with a discussion of study implications and limitations.