Self-Determination
What Are the Values of Self-Determination?
The primary purpose of self-determination is to protect the rights of those of us who have disabilities so we can make fundamental life choices that enhance our authority to support us in becoming active members of the community. The values of self-determination include:
Freedom. Those of us with disabilities and our families have the right to make basic choices about our lives.
Authority. In order to exercise real freedom of choice, those of us with disabilities must have control over our lives, including the funds that pay for the services and supports we receive, and have meaningful options from which to choose.
Support. Support and assistance are required of all people. While some of us require more support, or different kinds of assistance, no one is completely self-sufficient. A self-determination approach to service seeks to assure that we have the authority, support, and access to a wide variety of opportunities for integration into the communities where we live, work, and socialize.
Responsibility. The reward of freedom includes the responsibility to share and contribute to the world and to be accountable for our actions.
