SELF-DETERMINED BEHAVIOR AMONG INDIVIDUALS WITH INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES: PERSPECTIVES OF THEIR PARENTS AND PROFESSIONALS

Abstract

Self-determination is the core prerequisite for the realization of dignity, autonomy, independent living, equal participation, and one of the key determinants of individual's quality of life. Accordingly, it is essential to understand how it develops and i s expressed in the everyday behavior of adults with intellectual disabilities (ID), particularly from the perspective of those who provide them ongoing support. Considering the lack of research in this topic, especially in local context, the aim of this pa per as part of a broader study conducted in Croatia was to investigate how parents/guardians (N = 104) and professionals/supporting staff (N = 31) estimate different aspects of self-determining behavior in adults with ID. An adapted version of the Scale for the Assessment of Self -Determination of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities was applied; the parent and professional versions demonstrated high reliability. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods, and three hypotheses were tested. The findings indicate that a generally l ow level of self -determination among the assessed individuals prevailed, no significant differences in the results were found between parental and professional perspective. The hypothesis of a significantly higher level of self -determination in persons with mild, compared to those with moderate ID was confirmed, but not regarding the level of education of their parents. In conclusion, the need for further research into the covered topic was emphasized to understand more fully the individual and contextual f actors that shape the subjective potential, as well as the objective prerequisites for the development of self - determination of persons with ID.