Persons with developmental disability exposed to interpersonal violence and crime: approaches for intervention.

PURPOSE

Psychoeducational and psychotherapeutic interventions, by psychiatric advanced practice registered nurses and caregivers working with people with developmental disabilities exposed to interpersonal violence and crime, are recommended to help the individual resolve the intrapsychic trauma.

CONCLUSIONS

Persons with developmental disabilities experience the full affective range of the effects of trauma and may benefit from a variety of interventions. What may be different in comparison to other survivors are the ways psychotherapeutic and psychoeducational interventions are adapted so that emotions, resultant actions, and ongoing concerns can be effectively expressed and addressed.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Advanced practice registered nurses have an important role in addressing the sequelae of trauma by employing flexible, creative, and direct therapy with individuals. Additionally significant is provision of educational and supportive measures for the caregivers, who have the potential to generate an ongoing socially therapeutic environment.