Activity limitation and participation restriction of communication skills in vocational training of adults with intellectual disability

Aim:- The study evaluated communication skills of adults with intellectual disability pursuing vocational training. In specific terms, the issues addressed were whether communication skills vary with severity of retardation and whether communication skills impact nature of vocational trade. Method: - The International Classification of Functioning (ICF) framework was used to answer these research questions. The data was obtained in 62 adults with mild and moderate intellectual disability aged 18-30 years. The participants received vocational training in vocational rehabilitation trades like Phenyl Making, Candle Making, Photocopy, Computer Training, Screen Printing, Ironing and Laundry, and Cooking. Results: - The findings revealed significant differences between mild and moderate intellectual disability in terms of producing or receiving verbal and nonverbal messages. The activity limitation and participation restriction was significantly different across vocational trades in persons with mild and moderate levels of retardation. Conclusions: - The results revealed variability in communication skills with respect to severity of retardation suggesting higher intelligence and cognitive skills are the key to performance in communication and adjustments in vocational training. The study also revealed that ‘Photocopy’ profession allows least restrictive performance compared to other trades. Limitations: - The study could be extended to other levels of severity of retardation.