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ERIC Number: EJ1471797
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2025
Pages: 12
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1366-8250
EISSN: EISSN-1469-9532
Available Date: 0000-00-00
Navigating Uncertainty: Taking Methodological Cues from Relatives and Care Professionals for Researching the Perspectives of People with Profound Intellectual and Multiple Disabilities
Journal of Intellectual & Developmental Disability, v50 n2 p139-150 2025
Background: Researching the perspectives of people with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (PIMD) presents complexity and uncertainty. Traditional research often prioritises rational, objectivist methods, which may overlook this complexity. Aims: This study aimed to develop methodological cues for researchers studying the perspectives of people with PIMD by exploring how support workers and relatives deal with the uncertainty of uncovering these perspectives, drawing on Zinn's typology of strategies for dealing with uncertainty: "rational," "non-rational," and "in-between". Method: We conducted interviews with support workers and relatives and observed interactions through shadowing. Results: All of Zinn's strategies were observed, leading to six cues: (1) practicing an ethic of engagement; (2) valuing non-rational knowledge; (3) collaborating closely with caregivers; (4) acknowledging intertwined perspectives; (5) adopting phenomenological approaches; and (6) accepting uncertainty as inevitable. Conclusion: These cues promote an "anti-sceptical ethic of engagement" that encourages researchers to actively attune to the perspectives of people with PIMD.
Taylor & Francis. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 530 Walnut Street Suite 850, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Tel: 215-625-8900; Fax: 215-207-0050; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Netherlands
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: 1Department of Citizenship and Humanisation of the Public Sector, University of Humanistic Studies, Utrecht, The Netherlands