Behavioral Research Methods in Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Impactful, high-quality, and innovative research in intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) is built upon rigorous research methods. Different from those commonly used in the study of a general, neurotypical sample, there are unique issues, challenges, and opportunities in IDD research methods. Here, we briefly reviewed common IDD research methods including ethical considerations, and discussed common challenges to the research process together with strategies to address them. IDD research presents critical opportunities to impact the IDD community directly and indirectly. For instance, participants with IDD and their family/caretakers could be involved as research partners, an approach called participatory research that has been gaining popularity in the field. IDD research results can and should be implemented into practice and policy decision-making to better the IDD community and the broader society. Finally, we considered future directions in IDD research methods.