Reconsidering the Inclusive Research Approach: Proxy Intervention Interview as an Opportunity for the Participation of People With Cognitive Disability and Communication Challenges

Abstract

Qualitative researchers who need to interview people with cognitive disability, including intellectual, developmental, mental disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), can experience limitations in implementing an inclusive research approach using conventional methods like verbal communication. In this paper ‘proxy intervention interview’ is shown to be an inclusive research approach for incorporating the voices of artists who cannot articulate their thoughts or describe their own experiences concerning their career development. The author introduces a step-by-step process for implementing this method, including such aspects as research design, recruitment, and informed consent. Five key ethical considerations are suggested for designing an appropriate inclusive research approach to encourage the participation of people with cognitive disability, regardless of their level of capacity.