The Importance of Perceived Quality-of-Life and Personal Resources in Transition from School to Adult Life☆

Abstract Background It is critical to improve Quality-of- Life since it has impact on the future life of the young people with disabilities. Many youth with disabilities have difficulty in successfully making the transition from school to adult life. In addition, there is evidence that students with disabilities receiving special education services in public schools score lower than their nondisabled peers on Quality-of- Life factors such as life satisfaction, self-determination, social belonging, and empowerment. Aims This study used interactive focus groups to examine the perspectives of Portuguese youth with disabilities who are institutionalized, about their life-satisfaction and personal capacities and its relationship with their actual expectations and future plans. Additionally, we heard from the youth about their past experiences in school related to transition to adult life preparation including perceived barriers that had an influence in their current life. Methods Four participants with physical disabilities were interviewed in one focus group. Results and Conclusions Through the analysis of audio-taped interviews, several factors were identified for these youths as having a great influence in their actual situation of life and future plans. Barriers and facilitators to transition were identified which included: personal development, community opportunities, social environment, school experience, assistive technology. The results of the study will discuss promising practices in transition practices that are needed in order students with disabilities have success in transition to adult life.