Religious and Spiritual Expressions of Young People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Although the importance and influence of spirituality in the lives of youth and young adults have garnered much attention, few studies have focused on the religious and spiritual lives of young people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). We examined the congregational activities, spiritual practices, and strength of religious faith of 440 individuals with IDD (aged 13-21 years) as reported by their parents. Such activities and practices were described as having particular prominence, with most youth participating in multiple ways both in a local congregation and at home. However, participation patterns were individualized and strongly associated with the importance of faith in their lives. We offer recommendations for families, congregations, agencies, and researchers aimed at better understanding and supporting this often-overlooked dimension of the lives of youth with IDD