People with intellectual disability, sensory impairments and behaviour disorder: a case series

BACKGROUND: Sensory impairments (SIs) are more prevalent in people with intellectual disability (ID). Both conditions lead to higher rates of emotional and behavioural problems than in the general population. The identification of psychiatric disorders in this group can be difficult, particularly in those with severe ID and limited communication skills. METHOD: The present paper presents a series of 18 case reports of individuals with ID, SI and behavioural problems. RESULTS: The majority of cases were young male caucasians with congenital rubella syndrome and autistic spectrum disorder, referred because of self-injurious behaviour (SIB) or aggression. Nine cases were treated with autidepressants, five underwent environmental changes and two had medication reduced. All showed some improvement. CONCLUSIONS: The benefits of comprehensive assessments, the use of standardized assessment tools and trials of treatments are discussed in the context of making psychiatric diagnoses.