Psychopathology and Intellectual Disability: Surveying Mental Health Professionals' Training, Attitudes, and Treatment Modalities
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Authors
Nekudova, Krystal K.
Issue Date
2003
Type
Dissertation
Language
en
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to look at therapists' attitudes toward utilizing a diverse treatment model when working with those suffering from mild to moderate intellectual disability and dually diagnosed with other psychiatric disorders. It was suggested that the psychologists would be better trained, be more willing to treat, be more comprehensive in their approach, have less biased and negative attitudes, and provide a better prognosis to those suffering from a mild to moderate intellectual disability and another psychiatric disorder than the Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs). One hundred and sixteen California licensed psychologists and MFTs responded to a survey including questions on participant demographics, training, and experience and two vignettes with a diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorder, in which the patient had either mild, moderate, or no intellectual disability. Results indicate that there was no difference in likeliness to treat between license types, but those without training were more unlikely to treat. There was also no difference between license types in having less biased attitudes or having a higher or lesser degree of comfort. Results also indicated that MFTs were more likely to diagnose depression and anxiety than psychologists were; however, psychologists were more likely to diagnose with an accurate degree of intellectual disability. Results also indicated no statistical significance between psychologists and MFTs in providing a better prognosis. Findings suggest that the level of education does not impact clinicians' attitudes and approach to the treatment of those with an intellectual disability. Clinicians who have received training seem to lack much desire to work with this group. Additional research may need to focus more on what would interest clinicians in working with this population.