Exploring the Impact of Environmental Factors on Scores on the Self-Determination Inventory: Adult Report

Abstract

A long line of research has established a relationship between self-determination and positive adult outcomes. Findings from such research highlight that it is critical to provide opportunities and supports for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to use skills associated with self-determination (e.g., decision-making, problem-solving, goal setting, and attainment) in environments where they live, work, and learn. However, various environmental factors (e.g., living arrangement, employment status) can be strong indicators of how people with intellectual and developmental disabilities develop and express their self-determination. Recently, the Self-Determination Inventory: Adult Report (SDI:AR) was developed as a technology-based measure of self-determination for adults with and without disabilities ages 18 and over. No studies have investigated how environmental factors influence responses on the SDI:AR, including responses to specific items linked to each of the essential characteristics defined by Causal Agency Theory. Using the SDI:AR validation data, this study examined how environmental factors impacted self-determination of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The findings show specific environmental factors impact overall self-determination for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as responses on SDI:AR items. Consistent with previous research, the present study suggests that certain environmental factors facilitate a greater expression of self-determination in adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities while others restrict its expression. Findings from this study could inform environmental supports needed for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to engage in self-determined actions throughout adulthood.