Essential characteristics of self-determined behavior of individuals with mental retardation.
Despite increased emphasis on self-determination for individuals with mental retardation, only a few theoretical models have been formulated that specify measurable characteristics for the promotion and evaluation of this outcome. We propose that self-determination refers to acting as the primary causal agent in one's life and making choices and decisions regarding one's quality of life free from undue external influence or interference. Self-determined behavior is autonomous, self-regulated, based on psychological empowerment, and self-realizing. We evaluated this definition by asking participants with mental retardation to complete various instruments that measured self-determined behavior and these essential characteristics. Discriminant function analysis indicated that measures of essential characteristics predicted differences between groups based on exhibition of self-determined behavior.
Wehmeyer
M L
ML
Department of Research and Program Services, Arc, Arlington, TX 76010, USA.
Kelchner
K
K
Richards
S
S
D000203:Activities of Daily Living / Q000523:psychology*; D000328:Adult; D002755:Choice Behavior; D003657:Decision Making; D004495:Education of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008607:Intellectual Disability / Q000523:psychology* / Q000534:rehabilitation; D007389:Internal-External Control; D008297:Male; D010358:Patient Participation; D010555:Personality Inventory; D012649:Self Concept