Research Opportunity - Parents of adult children with an Intellectual Disability

Hello everyone

My name is Stephanie Bremner and I am a Trainee Clinical Psychologist studying at the University of Oxford. I am currently completing research exploring factors which may impact the quality of life for parents of adult children with Intellectual Disability (Learning Disability). Can you help?

Name of study

Quality of life for parents of adult children with an Intellectual Disability.

Description of research

This research explores factors which may influence the quality of life of parents who have an adult child (aged 18 years and over) with an Intellectual Disability (Learning Disability).

We are specifically interested in the role of social support, how parents perceive their caregiving role, and their current coping strategies, on their overall quality of life. We are interested in hearing from parents (biological or adoptive) who have an adult child with an Intellectual Disability (Learning Disability).

What is the purpose of the research?

We know that some parents can experience ongoing stressors when caring for a child with an Intellectual Disability (Learning Disability). We aim to gain a better understanding of the factors protecting parents’ QoL, as well as hoping to provide more tailored support and more effective clinical interventions for these parents.

What is the method of the research?

This study will be completed via an online survey using the Qualtrics platform. It should take approximately 20 minutes to complete this online study.

Our online survey begins with some demographic questions, which help us to better understand who is taking part. After this, you will be presented with a series of questionnaires exploring your current quality of life, perception of whether you feel your caregiving role is stressful, your social support, and your current ways of coping.

Who will conduct the research?

This research study is completed via an anonymous self-report online survey using the Qualtrics platform.

What personal data will be collected?

We do not collect any information that could directly identify you. Your IP address will not be stored. No direct identifiers are recorded, and all attempts have been made to de-identify participants (e.g. recording age in years).

How will that personal data be stored and how long for?

We will take all reasonable measures to ensure your data remains confidential. All anonymised survey responses you provide will be stored in a password-protected electronic file.

How will members participate?

If you are interested in taking part, the participant information sheet and the survey can be accessed via the following link: https://psychiatryoxford.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_7aCHtLJzbZKgMIu

When will the research end or survey close?

The survey is likely to close by the end of January 2026.