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How do people with intellectual disabilities construct their social identity? A review
Author(s) -
Logeswaran Sophini,
Hollett Megan,
Zala Sonia,
Richardson Lisa,
Scior Katrina
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
journal of applied research in intellectual disabilities
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.056
H-Index - 63
eISSN - 1468-3148
pISSN - 1360-2322
DOI - 10.1111/jar.12566
Subject(s) - shame , psychology , construct (python library) , psycinfo , feeling , social psychology , identity (music) , intellectual disability , social identity theory , stigma (botany) , social group , medline , physics , psychiatry , computer science , political science , acoustics , law , programming language
Background A 2005 review by Beart, Hardy and Buchan, asking how people with intellectual disabilities view their social identities, has been widely cited, indicating this important topic needs an updated review. This review covers research on how people with intellectual disabilities view their ascribed label; to what extent they ascribe it to themselves; and whether they recognize it as devalued in society. Method Rapid review methodology using PsycINFO, citation‐ and hand‐searching identified relevant studies. Results The 16 studies identified indicate that the majority are aware of their ascribed label, or acknowledge they are “different”. Others reject it, focusing on alternative attributes or roles. Most recognize others view the label negatively and express feelings of shame, anger and powerlessness. Conclusions The review advances our understanding of social identity formation in people with intellectual disabilities, with implications for future research and practice to support construction of positive social identities and stigma resistance.