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Updated: Oct 13, 2025
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Measuring the Functional Abilities of Children Aged 3-6 Years Old with Observational Methods and Computer Tools
Published on: June 20, 2020
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Phenomenological Study of the Transition Process for Adolescents With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Jeryl D Benson1, Rachel Tokarski2, Meghan G Blaskowitz3
1Jeryl D. Benson, EdD, OTR/L, is Associate Professor, Department of Occupational Therapy, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA; benson@duq.edu.
Summary
Parents of adolescents with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) desire person-centered planning and better communication for a successful transition. Occupational therapy practitioners can improve transition outcomes for young adults with IDD.
Area of Science:
- Disability Studies
- Occupational Therapy
- Family-Centered Care
Background:
- Young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) face significant barriers transitioning to postsecondary life.
- Occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) play a crucial role in supporting these transitions.
- Understanding parental experiences is vital for improving transition services.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the lived experiences of parents navigating the transition process for their adolescents with IDD.
- To identify key challenges and desired supports from the parental perspective.
Main Methods:
- Phenomenological research design.
- Semi-structured interviews with 11 parents of adolescents and young adults (ages 16-22) with IDD.
- Interviews conducted in community-based settings, either face-to-face or via telephone.
Main Results:
- Parents reported a need for more person-centered practices and improved team communication.
- Frustration was common due to feeling like the primary driver of progress and experiencing gaps in programming.
- Positive team collaboration and future planning were also identified themes.
Conclusions:
- Parents advocate for person-centered planning, school staff guidance, and resource sharing.
- Transition processes for individuals with IDD have seen limited change over decades.
- OTPs are well-positioned to address transition barriers, enhance self-determination, and improve quality of life for young adults with IDD.
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