Video feedforward in the support of a man with intellectual disability and inappropriate sexual behaviour

Inappropriate sexual behaviour, paedophilia in particular, is a socially significant issue. When this matter is complicated by issues related to intellectual disability, rights to the least restrictive environment, and public safety, the need to find rapid and effective support becomes urgent. The best documented psychological treatments for inappropriate sexual behaviour are oriented to self-control by thought processes and their value may be questioned for individuals with low cognitive functioning. To address this problem, we developed a series of self-modelling interventions in which the self-control elements were displayed on video. The subject was a Native Alaskan man in his 20s with intellectual disability and a history of institutionalisation and paedophilic behaviours. Pilot video interventions were first used to enhance participation in a support program at supervised apartments. Video feedforward was then implemented in a multiple baseline design, resulting in the rapid acquisition of self-control behaviours (such as choosing another route to the laundry to avoid encountering children). The results have implications for adaptations to interventions involving people who experience cognitive limitations.