ERIC Number: EJ1345561
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2022
Pages: 25
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1034-912X
EISSN: EISSN-1465-346X
Available Date: N/A
Friendship Experiences of Young Adults Who Use Augmentative and Alternative Communication
International Journal of Disability, Development and Education, v69 n3 p951-975 2022
Background: Friendship is a crucial relationship for young adults with disabilities as it offers practical support and enjoyment, and it is essential to well-being and health. The present study examined the friendships of young adults with physical disabilities whose challenges with natural speech necessitate the use of augmentative and alternative communication. Methods: Ten adults aged 19-32 were interviewed about their friendships. The semi-structured interviews were often co-constructed conversations between the participant, the carer and the interviewer. A process of largely inductive thematic analysis was followed, although this was guided by the existing literature on friendship experiences of persons using AAC. Results: Four themes were identified, namely companionship, quality of friendship, desire for independence, and the role of technology in mediating friendships. Conclusion: The participants in this study experienced positive relationships with friends. The importance of being understood by their friends and the role of social media in maintaining these friendships were highlighted.
Descriptors: Friendship, Young Adults, Physical Disabilities, Augmentative and Alternative Communication, Social Media, Interpersonal Relationship, Foreign Countries, Interpersonal Communication, Barriers
Routledge. 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; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: South Africa
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A