Thoughts of young adults with Down syndrome

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to obtain information about the thoughts of young adults with Down syndrome through interviews of them.

Methods: The numbers of participants were 4 and 7 in order to group interviews and individual interviews. They were recruited through the local Association of Parents of Down syndrome. The study incorporated a qualitative descriptive exploratory design to clarify the actual conditions of the lives young adults with Down syndrome and their own thoughts.

Results: Through analysis, six themes emerged: 1) thoughts about work, 2) existence of friends, 3) how to spend leisure time, 4) meaning of disability, 5) relationships with people, and 6) future dreams.

Conclusions: 1) Although young adults with Down syndrome are serious about their work, it is difficult for them to make friends at work. However, they recognized people at work as their comrades and were encouraged by being spoken to by these people. 2) Although they had few opportunities to engage in activities with their friends, they looked forward to the contact with their friends. 3) In their leisure time, they often spent time alone, listening to CDs, or watching YouTube. 4) Four of the participants knew that they had Down syndrome, but they did not deny that fact.

Keywords: Daily living; Thoughts; Young adults with down syndrome.