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In several subdomains of the social, behavioral, health, and human sciences, research questions are increasingly answered through mixed methods studies, combining qualitative and quantitative evidence and research elements. Accordingly, the importance of including those primary mixed methods research articles in systematic reviews grows. It is generally known that the critical appraisal of articles is an essential step in the development of a methodologically sound review. This article provides an overview of the available critical appraisal frameworks developed to evaluate primary mixed methods research articles. In addition, we critically compare and evaluate these frameworks and the quality criteria they include.

Background: High quality interactions are of crucial importance for quality of life of persons with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (PIMD). This literature review describes and synthesises studies addressing the interaction between persons with PIMD and their partners. Method: A computerised literature search using defined inclusion criteria yielded 15 articles. Results: The literature analysis revealed four components important in interactions: sensitive responsiveness, joint attention, co-regulation, and an emotional component. The abilities and disabilities, interactive behaviours, and personality of persons with PIMD influence these interactions. Additional influences are the partners' interactive strategies, knowledge, and perceptions and the context of the interaction. Conclusions: An overview model integrates the results and forms a vehicle to facilitate our understanding of interactions with persons with high support needs. Methodological analyses of the studies show lacunae in current research. This review offers a starting point to guide future research and intervention.

This study gives a systematic and recent overview of studies that focus on staff variables that may have an influence on the origin and maintenance of challenging behaviour of clients with an intellectual disability. Thirty three studies were identified through computerized searches of the PsycInfo and ERIC-databases on the basis of specific search terms and inclusion criteria. The results were synthesized by using a narrative thematic synthesis. Many studies discussed staff beliefs about the causes of challenging behaviour and staff stress and emotional reactions to challenging behaviour. Furthermore, the relationship between attributions and emotions and between emotional reactions and levels of optimism and willingness to offer help were investigated. Finally, the least presented topic was staff responses to challenging behaviour. (Contains 1 table.)

The present article reviews reminiscence research with regard to people with intellectual disabilities. Although the term "reminiscence" is not often used in intellectual disability research, the concept offers a useful framework for charting the different approaches in literature, thanks to its multidisciplinary character and eclectic theoretical background. Three main perspectives are identified: a critical approach, in which reminiscence is stimulated to let people with intellectual disabilities become critically aware of their past; a person-centred approach, in which reminiscence serves informational and social purposes; and a clinical approach, in which reminiscence is presented as an alternative diagnostic instrument and/or a "low-threshold" narrative counselling method for people with intellectual disabilities. The three approaches differ in language use, aims, and backgrounds, but there is congruency amongst the approaches in that reminiscence work can strengthen the identity of people with intellectual disabilities, raise self-esteem, and enhance social contacts. The review concludes that a more balanced view of reminiscence, better methodological procedures, and more evaluation studies on the effect and process of reminiscence work are needed in future research. (Contains 1 table.)

Background: This study provides an overview of empirical research on the effectiveness of quality-enhancing interventions for people with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (PIMD). Method: Through computerised searches of the PsycINFO and ERIC databases, and using several search criteria specifically relating to the target group and to the subject of this review, 16 studies were identified. Results: The interventions described are targeted at the physical and material well-being, emotional well-being, social interactions, choices, and personal development of individuals with PIMD, but do not address community participation and rights. The majority of the studies report positive effects of the interventions on staff and/or client behaviour. However these effects should be interpreted with caution because of methodological and other considerations. Conclusions: Current research gives only limited insight into the effectiveness of quality-enhancing interventions for people with PIMD. To foster evidence-based practice, further studies of larger groups and with more robust designs are warranted. The potential differential effects associated with client characteristics and the context of the implementation should also be considered. (Contains 1 table.)

This paper gives a description of the support needs of people with profound multiple disabilities (PMD), based on the five basic dimensions of the 2002 AAMR System, being intellectual abilities, adaptive behavior, participation, interaction and social roles, health and context. It is based on a study of the literature concerning the target group. The overview shows that people with PMD have the same needs as other people, with regard to participation, relationships, choices, resources and physical and socio-emotional well-being. Nevertheless, it becomes apparent that the needs of people with PMD require specific support. In order to meet these special needs, a relational perspective on support as well as specific characteristics of the support staff and of the support context are necessary. (Contains 1 figure.)

This article provides an overview of important family and environmental factors that affect early development of infants and children with Down syndrome. It concludes that a moderately directive parenting style combined with sensitive, responsive, and reciprocal interactions, embedded in a general stimulating environment, are favorable to the child's development. (Contains references.) (CR)