#6 in conversation: with Dr Caroline Roberts. Re-thinking self-injury - family systems, attachments and shared humanity.

This conversation explores the intersection of self-injury and learning (intellectual) disabilities, emphasizing the importance of family-centered approaches and the need to bridge gaps in research and clinical practice.

Caroline and Bev discuss historical contexts and societal attitudes and why people with learning disabilities who sometimes hurt themselves have been thought about and treated so differently from those without learning disabilities.

We go on to discuss the role of emotional states and attachment theory in understanding self-injury among individuals with intellectual disabilities. And consider the importance of highlighting practical interventions and the significance of supporting both individuals and their families, advocating for a more inclusive and compassionate approach to care.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Self-Injury and Intellectual Disabilities

02:34 Bridging the Gap: Family-Centered Approaches

05:08 Historical Context and Societal Attitudes

08:02 The Role of Family in Self-Injury

10:23 Emotional States and Attachment Theory

12:58 Practical Interventions and Family Dynamics

15:45 Building Secure Attachments

18:47 Creative Approaches in Research and Practice

21:28 Final Thoughts and Messages for Families