The development and preliminary evaluation of a thinking skills programme for adults with learning disabilities at risk of offending

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to outline and evaluate the development of a thinking skills programme for adults with learning disabilities at risk of offending. Design/methodology/approach – The programme was evaluated over three years using self-report clinical measures related to treatment targets and feedback from participants. Findings – Results showed a statistically significant improvement in general empathy ( t =1.800, df=15, p =<0.05) and perspective taking ( t =1.898, df=15, p =<0.05). Improvement in impulsivity and locus of control was not significant. Feedback from service users was positive. Practical implications – Findings suggest that thinking skills programmes can be of benefit to adults with learning disabilities at risk of offending. Originality/value – There is a need to provide opportunities for adults with learning disabilities to address generic deficits and factors supporting offending behaviour and to increase readiness for offence-specific treatment.