Challenging Behaviour in Arab Individuals with an Intellectual Disability

Abstract

Arab individuals with an intellectual disability have a likelihood of exhibiting challenging behaviours that deviate significantly from socially acceptable behaviours, such as aggression and self-injurious behaviour. These behaviours have broader impacts on individuals and society at large. This thesis thoroughly examines challenging behaviour in Arab individuals with an intellectual disability, employing various research methodologies. Chapter 1 introduces the research topic and outlines the thesis’s structure. In Chapter 2, a systematic review research method is used to narratively synthesise 79 intervention studies addressing challenging behaviour in the Arab population with an intellectual disability and/or autism. This review also critically appraised the studies’ design and reporting of these interventions. A cross-sectional, mixed-methods study was conducted to explore challenging behaviour in preschool-aged children with an intellectual disability in Saudi Arabia, assessing the prevalence and associated risk factors of challenging behaviour among 120 children of this population (Chapter 3) and evaluating the preschool staff’s experiences regarding managing challenging behaviour and the self-efficacy and training needs of 139 special education teachers (Chapter 4). Chapter 5 reports findings from a feasibility study incorporating a non-randomised, waitlist-controlled trial and a mixed-methods process evaluation approach. This study investigates the practical aspects of implementing caregiver training to understand and manage challenging behaviour. Positive behaviour support training was provided to 27 Arab caregivers of children with an intellectual disability who exhibit challenging behaviour. Chapter 6 discusses the implications of the research findings and offers directions for future research in this field. Research findings reveal a significant prevalence of challenging behaviour among Arabs with an intellectual disability, highlighting the significance of a comprehensive understanding of challenging behaviour to provide effective support and tailored interventions within this cultural context. This research provides valuable insights into understanding challenging behaviour and its management in Arab individuals with an intellectual disability.