Assessment of Personality Disorder In Learning Disabilities : An Exploration of Psychologists' Experiences in Community Settings

• Main Author: Quinn, Tara M.
• Published: University of Essex 2008
• Subjects: 616.85
• Online Access: http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.486498

Rationale: Compared to other psychiatric diagnoses, limited research has been conducted regarding the assessment of personality disorders in adults with learning disabilities living within community settings. There is growing concern that clinicians are hesitant to diagnose personality disorders in adults with a learning disability, even though many clients may meet the criteria for diagnosis (Naik et al 2002, Wilson 2001). No previous research has explored the experiences of clinicians with regard to assessment. Main aims: The current study aimed to explore the experiences of psychologists with regard to the assessment of personality disorder in adults with a learning disability living within community settings. To date, no qualitative research has been conducted looking at the individual experiences of psychologists when working with this client group.