Personalization, self-advocacy and inclusion: An evaluation of parent-initiated supported living schemes for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the Netherlands. (June 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Reindl, Marie-Sol; Waltz, Mitzi; Schippers, Alice
• Editors: McConkey, Roy; Keogh, Fiona
• Is Part Of: Journal of intellectual disabilities. Volume 20:Number 2(2016:Jun.)
• Page Start: 121
• Page End: 136
• Publication Date: 2016-06
• Subjects: community-based living -- developmental disability -- intellectual disability -- self-advocacy; Mental retardation -- Periodicals; People with mental disabilities -- Periodicals; Learning disabilities -- Periodicals; Handicap intellectuel; Trouble d'apprentissage; Handicapé mental; Périodique électronique (Descripteur de forme); Ressource Internet (Descripteur de forme); 362.1968588
• DOI: 10.1177/1744629516631449
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1744-6295

Abstract

This study focused on parent-initiated supported living schemes in the South of the Netherlands and the ability of these living schemes to enhance participation, choice, autonomy and self-advocacy for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities through personalized planning, support and care. Based on in-depth interviews with tenants, parents and caregivers, findings included that parent-initiated supported housing schemes made steps towards stimulating self-advocacy and autonomy for tenants. However, overprotective and paternalistic attitudes expressed by a significant number of parents, as well as structural constraints affecting the living schemes, created obstacles to tenants' personal development. The study calls for consideration of interdependence as a model for the relationship of parents and adult offspring with disabilities. The benefits and tensions inherent within this relationship must be taken into consideration during inclusive community building.