From Framework to Practice: Person-Directed Planning in the Real World

Area of Science:

• Disability Studies
• Community Psychology
• Social Work

Background:

• Person-directed planning (PDP) aims to shift power from service systems to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their natural supports.
• PDP seeks to enhance relationships and foster community integration for individuals with IDD.
• Effective PDP requires the involvement of appropriate individuals with suitable attitudes and actions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the contribution of key elements within person-directed planning (PDP) to successful planning outcomes.
• To understand how different components of PDP influence the effectiveness of support planning for individuals with IDD.

Main Methods:

• Participatory action research techniques were employed.
• Researchers collaborated with three distinct planning teams from community service agencies.
• Methods included free listing, pile sorting, Socratic wheels, and whys/hows exercises.

Main Results:

• Most core elements of PDP were found to be applicable across the participating teams.
• Teams' perceptions varied regarding which specific PDP elements most significantly contributed to planning successes.
• The relevance and impact of PDP elements were influenced by team-specific goals and individual client strengths and needs.

Conclusions:

• The elements of person-directed planning (PDP) are utilized and valued by planning teams.
• The effectiveness of specific PDP components can differ based on unique planning contexts, individual goals, and the strengths and needs of the person being supported.
• PDP offers a flexible framework adaptable to diverse support planning scenarios.