Examining Perceptions Toward Self-Determination of People with Disabilities: A Meta-synthesis

People with disabilities develop skills associated with self-determined action when supports and opportunities, aligned to their strengths and values, are provided in the environments in which they live, learn, and work. Researchers have suggested that a complex array of contextual factors impacts how people with disabilities and their key supporters in life perceive self-determination. However, to date, no comprehensive meta-synthesis has examined similarities and differences within and across studies regarding key contextual factors that shape perceptions of self-determination for people with disabilities and their supporters. The purpose of this meta-synthesis was to explore similarities and differences among various stakeholders’ perceptions of self-determination. Additionally, we examined how various contextual factors impact on perceptions. Findings showed that the respondents across the studies generally agreed on the value of self-determination in the lives of people with disabilities. People with disabilities, especially, expressed that self-determination was vital for them to achieve their goals and dreams. Implications for future research and practice are provided to further understand, assess, and utilize discrepant perspectives among stakeholders when implementing and evaluating interventions to promote self-determination.