Oppression or Support? Social Policy in the Lives of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities

Abstract

ABSTRACTIndividuals’ self-determination, in the sense of making one’s own decisions and controlling one’s own life, constitutes a fundamental human right. It is also pivotal to the realisation of other human rights, and has become a founding pillar of social policy. Through interviews with eight persons who have intellectual disabilities, this article looks at whether, how, and why the promise of self-determination stated in Norwegian guardianship and social-care policies impacts practice. As such it aims to give voice to perspectives that are largely underrepresented in human rights and social science research. The article finds that persons with intellectual disabilities commonly experience newly enacted polices as oppressive rather than supportive. Both social-care workers and guardians can easily obstruct the self-determination of persons who depend on their support, and Norwegian policies do not include efficient mechanisms for empowering these individuals. The article also provides some advice on how policies can better protect the rights of those who depend on decision-making assistance.