Navigating self-determination: Perspectives of people with intellectual disabilities

People with intellectual disabilities have fewer opportunities to develop and strengthen self-determination. In this inclusive study, we aimed to understand how adults with intellectual disabilities perceive independence, including their definitions, the possibilities for achieving it, and the needs associated with it. Co-researchers with and without intellectual disabilities conducted individual and focus group interviews with 33 people with intellectual disabilities. Applying reflexive thematic analysis three main themes were generated: Conceptualizing their own independence at present and in the future, Person-specific factors that impact independence, and the need for change. Participants' perspectives on self-determination reflected the diversity of their experiences related to living conditions, competencies, attitudes of significant others, as well as characteristics arising from the disability itself or associated disorders and conditions. Inclusive design of the study proved an adequate methodology. The added value and implications for practice are discussed.