Adults with intellectual disability : choice and control in the context of family

This chapter about the experience of choice and control by adults with intellectual disability in the family context is offered against the background of the tripartite ecological theory of self-determination (Abery and Stancliffe, A tripartite-ecological theory of self-determination. In Wehmeyer et al. (Eds.), Theory in self-determination: Foundations for educational practice (pp. 43–78). Springfield, IL: Charles C. Thomas, 2003). The challenges in determining readiness for adult decision-making are discussed, as are the experiences of adults with intellectual disability when exercising choice and control within the family context. How families, including parents and siblings, influence decision-making by their family member with intellectual disability is summarized. The critical role of the family in supporting independent choice-making is also highlighted. The chapter ends with a call for research about skills and resources for families to become effective, knowledgeable, and confident supporters of their member with intellectual disability in the quest for adult self-determination.