Intellectual Disability, Identity, and the Internet

Abstract

This chapter provides insight into the nature of online engagement by people with intellectual disabilities, the extent and quality of this engagement in terms of the access that people have, and how people with intellectual disabilities present themselves in the online world. The authors of this chapter provide an overview of the extant literature on intellectual disability, identity, and the Internet. The chapter begins by outlining issues around Internet use and access by people with intellectual disabilities, including potential barriers. It then moves on to address online behaviour and the potential benefits of Internet use for people with intellectual disabilities. The chief focus of the chapter follows, describing the manner in which computer mediated communication affects how people with intellectual disabilities present themselves in the online world as well as considering the role that family members and supporters play in the development and management of people’s online identities. Finally, the chapter introduces future directions for research into intellectual disability, identity, and the Internet.

Connectedness and ICT: Opening the door to possibilities for people with intellectual disabilities

“…online scams, bullying, accessing inappropriate content, etc.) (Chadwick et al, 2017; Chadwick et al, 2013). Trying to operate in the best interests of their loved one, family members and carers may perceive the risks to be greater than the benefit and restrict the online activity of people with ID (Chadwick et al, 2017).…”

“…The degree to which skill limitations can be mitigated by the support of others is dependent on the characteristics of the supports and also characteristics of the technology. Formal and informal support people, those that people with ID are reliant on for assistance, may not have the time, expertise (Chadwick et al, 2013) or be resistant to trying new technology (Stendal, 2012). If family members and supportive people lack familiarity with ICTs, this could limit the opportunities available to people with ID.…”

A Descriptive Analysis of Social Media Usage as Predictors of Study Habits among Students with Intellectual Disabilities in Calabar Metropolis: Implications for Inclusive Education

“…Research evidence shows that people with intellectual disability are at high risk of social isolation and loneliness and often have smaller social networks that consist primarily of family members and support staff [6]. It is possible that access to social media sites could enable people with intellectual disability to increase the frequency and quality of their social interactions, develop meaningful relationships, and reduce feelings of loneliness [7]. Social media can play an important role in supporting the empowerment and participation of individuals and groups by enabling networking, improving self-esteem [8], and enabling online campaigning among marginalised groups such as disabled people.…”