INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR INNOVATIVE RESEARCH IN MULTIDISCIPLINARY FIELD

Abstract:  Intellectual disability (ID) is a lifelong developmental condition associated with limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviour, with important implications for education, employment, independent living, family functioning and community participation. In India, rehabilitation of persons with intellectual disability has gradually shifted from predominantly institution-oriented services towards family-centred, community-based and rights-oriented approaches. Psychosocial rehabilitation (PSR) and community-based rehabilitation (CBR) are particularly relevant because they address not only individual skills but also family support, social participation, livelihood, empowerment and environmental barriers. The present systematic review synthesises empirical and review evidence concerning psychosocial and community-based rehabilitation of persons with intellectual disability in India, with particular attention to adaptive behaviour, family participation, caregiver well-being, vocational rehabilitation, community participation and social inclusion. Evidence was considered from Indian empirical studies, systematic reviews, qualitative studies and relevant international rehabilitation literature informing the Indian context. Findings indicate that parent-mediated and family-centred interventions can improve adaptive behaviour, parental knowledge and attitudes, while community-based approaches can facilitate participation, access to services and inclusion. Indian research has also demonstrated the feasibility of supported employment and the importance of vocational preparation and workplace support. At the same time, barriers include stigma, inadequate awareness, shortage of trained personnel, limited employment opportunities, fragmented services, financial constraints and variation in programme implementation. The review indicates that rehabilitation should be multidimensional, culturally responsive and sustained across the life course. An integrated model combining psychosocial intervention, adaptive-skills training, family empowerment, inclusive education, vocational rehabilitation, supported employment and community participation is particularly relevant for India. Future research should use larger samples, longitudinal designs, standardised outcome measures and stronger evaluation of CBR programmes.