City Research Online

Abstract

Research on pain in individuals with intellectual disabilities has largely focused on identification of pain and medical management of pain symptoms. Pain management programmes have not routinely been offered to such individuals. In view of the ample evidence that Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) can be used for chronic pain management including the management of dysmenorrhea in the general population, and the preliminary evidence for its effectiveness in people with intellectual disability (McManus & McGuire, 2014), there is a rationale for evaluating a CBT-based pain management programme for menstrual pain in women with intellectual disabilities. The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate a theory-based cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) programme for menstrual pain management in young women with intellectual disabilities. The programme was developed from the theory-based programme “Feeling Better” (McManus & McGuire, 2010). The study used a mixed methods design with the intervention delivered in group format, on a weekly basis, to those in the treatment condition. Those in the control condition received treatment as usual. Information was gathered throughout the process on a number of key pain variables including pain management knowledge, pain coping strategies, pain intensity and pain interference. Process evaluation was conducted with key stakeholders to examine which elements of the programme were most relevant in promoting change. Results suggest that participation in the menstrual pain management group had a positive impact in terms of increasing pain management knowledge over time, and increasing the use of wellness-focused coping strategies to manage pain in everyday situations. Findings suggest that a cognitive-behavioural therapy programme can be effectively used to support menstrual pain management amongst young women with intellectual disabilities.

Publication Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology H Social Sciences > HQ The family. Marriage. Woman
Departments:	Doctoral Theses School of Health & Psychological Sciences > Psychology School of Health & Psychological Sciences > School of Health & Psychological Sciences Doctoral Theses

Export

Downloads