'You need to let your voice be heard': Research participants' views on research

Background Persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities have had regrettably few opportunities to voice their opinions on aspects of research with which they have had direct experience. Understanding and responding to these views can contribute to policies and practices that increasingly treat people as they desire to be treated. Methods We conducted individual interviews and focus groups with 16 adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to examine their perspectives on participating in research. Results Our analysis indicates that adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities want to engage in research to improve their quality of life and to have greater access to a worthwhile activity through more active participation. Our results also highlight trust as a critical ingredient in the success of research with this group. Conclusions Our findings suggest that despite ethical challenges, researchers can and should pursue research that has the potential to improve the lives of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Such research is more likely to be both ethical and successful if researchers pay attention to enhancing autonomy and person-centredness, while at the same time engendering participant trust.