BACKGROUND: A 2005 review by Beart, Hardy and Buchan, asking how people with
intellectual disabilities view their social identities, has been widely cited, indicating this
important topic needs an updated review. This review covers research on how people with
intellectual disabilities view their ascribed label; to what extent they ascribe it to themselves;
and whether they recognise it as devalued in society.
METHOD: Rapid review methodology using PsycINFO, citation- and hand-searching
identified relevant studies.
RESULTS: The 16 studies identified indicate that the majority are aware of their ascribed label,
or acknowledge they are 'different'. Others reject it, focusing on alternative attributes or roles.
Most recognise others view the label negatively and express feelings of shame, anger and
powerlessness.
CONCLUSIONS: The review advances our understanding of social identity formation in people
with intellectual disabilities, with implications for future research and practice to support
construction of positive social identities and stigma resistance