A study of how people with learning disabilities experience social media

Section A: This section provides a systematic review of literature regarding how people with learning disabilities experience social media. The 15 studies are discussed in terms of study characteristics, method and findings. Quality appraisal tools were used to critique the studies. The findings were grouped into three themes; feelings and attitudes towards social media, opportunities (sub-themes; independence and autonomy, developing and expressing identity, connection and belonging), challenges and support networks. Implications for clinical practice were discussed and included the need for clinicians to enquire about PWLD social media use as both a potential resource and contributing factor to distress. Recommendations for future research included the creation of a model of social media use, in order to further understand how people with learning disabilities experience social media.

Section B: This section presents a grounded theory study of interviews with people with learning disabilities who use social media. The data consisted of interviews with 11 individuals. A preliminary theoretical model is described, which suggests that people with learning disabilities face many opportunities and challenges when navigating the online world and that doing so leads to a sense of being seen online. This visibility poses opportunities for feelings of connection and belonging alongside increased exposure to disability stigma. Participants demonstrated a range of skills and attitudes in facing this stigma. Clinical and research implications are addressed.