Focus groups with people with learning disabilities

Abstract

Focus groups are a widely accepted method in qualitative research. While there is a burgeoning literature on the methodology of focus groups, using focus groups with people with learning disabilities has received less attention so far. The article serves two purposes: (1) to review the current literature on focus groups in learning disability research and (2) to sketch four aspects that may impact on the usefulness of the focus group method with respondents with learning disabilities. Some comments on the role of focus groups in qualitative research start the article before we outline the emancipatory and participatory context of research with people with learning disabilities.