The perceived helpfulness of structural family therapy in caring for Hong Kong Chinese families of an adolescent with intellectual disabilities: A qualitative inquiry

Background Previous literature pinpointed the limitations of behavioural treatment in helping families of people with intellectual disabilities to transit lifecycle adjustment and suggested the contributions of systemic intervention made to this population. Methods This study aimed to explore the applicability of structural family therapy to helping Hong Kong Chinese families of adolescents with intellectual disabilities from the perspective of family members. Nine members from four families of adolescents with intellectual disabilities were recruited. Family or individual interviews were conducted. A thematic analysis was adopted for data analysis. Findings The families experienced two major changes after the therapy, that is, sharing the care responsibilities among family members and using more open communication styles in the family. Structural family therapy was found to be helpful in mediating family problems and promoting the active involvement of adolescents with intellectual disabilities in family interactions. However, the family participants expected clear guidance for the future development of adolescents with intellectual disabilities in a family treatment process. Conclusions Structural family therapy can be a promising approach to working with Chinese families of adolescents with intellectual disabilities. Accessible summary This study is the first attempt in Chinese contexts to explore the helpfulness of structural family therapy. The study looked at changes after the therapy from the perspective of Chinese families of adolescents with intellectual disabilities in Hong Kong. This study found that structural family therapy was helpful in promoting sharing the care responsibilities among family members. It was also useful in instilling open communication among members of Chinese families of adolescents with intellectual disabilities. The family participants expected guidance for the future development of adolescents with intellectual disabilities in a family treatment process.