[Empowerment of people with developmental disabilities]

People with developmental disabilities have their own life cycles and social services for them, such as therapeutic training, education, vocational training, and community care, should respect their initiative in decision-making and controlling their own lives. However, social isolation of the disabled people and their families, lack of resources, and discrimination have resulted in their disempowerment. This paper discusses the professionals' role in empowerment, focuses on social and consumer models, and emphasizes the importance of the partnership between professionals and self-help groups.