In his doctoral research, clinical psychologist Ahmed Riaz Mohamed focuses on strengthening the parent-child relationship in children with intellectual disabilities in South Africa. Globally, approximately one in 160 children receives this diagnosis, which often results in delayed development of language and other skills. These children also tend to display behaviors that are difficult for parents to understand. This can cause strain in the parent-child relationship and calls for additional support for parents, especially in settings with limited care resources.
Mohamed’s study explored how parents can be supported in building a secure relationship with their child. He examined the applicability of the intervention Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-up (ABC) in the South African context. This intervention is designed to help parents engage in sensitive caregiving and to enhance the social-emotional wellbeing of young children.
The research consisted of four parts. First, existing literature and intervention materials were analyzed to assess how attachment-based interventions can be adapted to meet the specific needs of children with intellectual disabilities. Next, South African parents were surveyed through questionnaires and interviews about their parenting experiences and support needs. In a third phase, three families were followed over a period of six months to measure the practical effects of the ABC intervention. Finally, a panel of experts, parents, and intervention workers involved in ABC was assembled to gather feedback on the usability and possible adaptations of the intervention.
The findings are positive: parents found the ABC intervention to be useful and valuable. They observed improvements in their own parenting behavior and in their relationship with their child. Facilitators and experts also confirmed the importance of this approach. While some suggestions were made for minor adaptations, the intervention was considered suitable and relevant for the South African context.
Mohamed’s research demonstrates that attachment-based interventions like ABC can be effectively implemented in families of children with intellectual disabilities. The ability to tailor such programs increases their applicability across diverse settings. This contributes to better support for parents and promotes the wellbeing of children, particularly in environments where additional help is greatly needed.
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