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Caregivers’ views of the risks and benefits of Internet use by people with intellectual disability
Abstract

Caregivers’ views of the risks and benefits of Internet use by people with intellectual disability

Sarah Glencross, Melanie Anderson, Jonathan Mason and Mary Katsikitis
2019 Proceedings of the Australasian Society for Intellectual Disability Conference
Australasian Society for Intellectual Disability Conference, 2019 (Adelaide, Australia, 06-Nov-2019–08-Nov-2019)
2019
url
http://www.asidconference.com.au/2160View
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Abstract

Specialist Studies in Education Psychology
Background: Recent research shows people with intellectual disability experience more barriers to Internet use than people without intellectual disability. This 'digital divide' can lead to issues such as lack of access to online resources and fewer opportunities for social interaction. Prior studies indicate caregivers, such as family members or support workers, play an important role in facilitating Internet use by people with intellectual disability. Method: The research uses a mixed-methods approach to examine caregivers' attitudes towards Internet use by people with intellectual disability and the strategies they use to facilitate safe Internet use. Data are collected through an online survey and semi-structured interviews with caregivers of people with intellectual disability in Australia. Results: To date, 14 online surveys have been completed by caregivers of people with intellectual disability. Preliminary inspection of the data indicates caregivers perceive the person they care for is most likely to be at risk of being told unpleasant things or being insulted online. In terms of carrying out risky behaviour, caregivers report the person they care for is most likely to spend too much time online, insult someone or block someone from a group or activity. Implications: Based on these preliminary results, it is anticipated the findings will identify which factors most strongly predict Internet use by people with intellectual disability and which strategies caregivers use to prevent online risks. This information can be used to address barriers to Internet use, for example by informing website design or training to improve Internet accessibility.

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