Decision-Making Opportunities: A Key Aspect in Processes Aimed at Fostering Independent Living

Area of Science:

• Disability Studies
• Psychology
• Sociology

Background:

• Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) often require extensive support.
• Transitioning to community-based living is a significant life change for people with IDD.
• Understanding factors influencing self-determination post-transition is crucial for improving quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze factors and processes affecting self-determination changes in people with IDD after moving to community homes.
• To investigate the relationship between received supports, choice, and self-determination.
• To determine the mediating role of choice in the support-self-determination pathway.

Main Methods:

• A repeated measures design was employed.
• Data were collected from 54 participants before and 6 months after their transition.
• Partial least square-structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was utilized to analyze complex relationships.

Main Results:

• Participants showed significant increases in self-determination, received supports, and choice post-transition.
• Received supports positively impacted self-determination.
• Choice fully mediated the relationship between supports and self-determination.

Conclusions:

• Community transitions can enhance self-determination for individuals with IDD.
• Supports must prioritize facilitating autonomy and choice to positively influence self-determination.
• Autonomy-supportive services are essential for improving quality of life for people with IDD in community settings.