Adapting Anger Management Group Counseling for People with an Intellectual Disability

Authors

  • Justin Richard Brogan Murray State University
  • Mark Rehfuss Old Dominion University

Abstract

Abstract

Anger management concerns are a primary reason people with Intellectual Disabilities (ID) are admitted to or remain living in a restrictive setting (Modi, McMorris, Palucka, Raina, & Lunsky, 2015; Taylor & Novaco, 2005).  The use of anger management groups for people with ID has demonstrated some promise (Benson, 1992; Taylor, Novaco, Gillmer, Robertson, & Thorne, 2005), yet, there remains a limited number of programs available for therapists to implement.  An established anger management curriculum was modified to accommodate clients who have mild ID.  Behavioral data demonstrated that people diagnosed with an ID who participate in an anger management group were able to reduce instances of aggressive behaviors while participating in the group.  Those positive results however, did not translate to long-term behavior changes.  Possible explanations for treatment outcomes as well as, suggestions for counseling practice and future research are provided.

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Published

2021-03-11