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چکیده
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Objectives: Many researchers have asserted that people with intellectual disabilities frequently have few friends in their life. This paper discusses the findings of the research question "What is the nature of friendships for people with Down Syndrome? ". Methods: This study was conducted through a thematic analysis of the life history and experiences of Paul Savage who is a person with ‘Down Syndrome’ in Northern city of England. Results: The findings of this study illustrates the friendship experiences of Paul in various settings at school, work, community and parental home. The findings indicated that the school was a good social environment where Paul experienced making friends and enjoyed developing friendship with his classmates, particularly with five people. Paul had several social contacts with his friends out of school hours and spent more time with them. The story also highlighted that, in spite of having few good friends at school, Paul experienced bullying by his non-disabled classmates. The story revealed that work placements provide workers with some support and good opportunities to make new friends in addition to having social relationships. Paul had several social contacts with his colleagues at work but no social contact after work. Paul only interacted with his workmates at work, particularly at break time. Paul developed his social relationships and friendships with other people through the membership of 12 clubs within the community. The interaction of Paul with his parents, brothers and relatives provided an opportunity for him to learn social skills, enabling him to have successful social interaction with non-disabled or disabled people. Conclusion: The finding of this study outlines all the important factors that enabled Paul to develop his friendships including having very supportive parents, having great interpersonal skills in addition to working at self-advocacy where Paul met many people.
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