Stress, Affect Regulation and Attachment of People With Sensory and Intellectual Disabilities

Abstract

Background: In persons with combined intellectual and sensory disabilities, mood disorders, stress reactions, and attachment problems are more prevalent. This study assessed the presence of these problems within this target population and the effects of an additional Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Methods: Participants were 60 persons with combined intellectual and sensory disabilities, all participants had visual impairments, 16 were deafblind. ASD was assessed with Observation of Autism in people with Sensory and Intellectual Disabilities. Additionally the Anxiety, Depression and Mood Scale, The list of Disturbed Attachment Behaviors and the Stress Survey Schedule were used. Results: Almost every participant showed signs of a disturbed attachment. Stress and mood disorders were not prevalent. An additional ASD resulted in more disturbed attachment, manic and hyperactive behavior and social avoidance. Conclusion: Only for disturbed attachment a relatively high prevalence was found. The presence of ASD sometimes led to a different profile of the assessed problems.