I am looking for some works that link independence with optimal functioning. Preferably in the area of special needs but not exclusively as this is relatively untapped area. Although Independence is often defined as 'basic living skills', I am looking to define it in the broader context of human flourishing.
Hi there. I would recommend looking at literature in the field of Occupational Therapy. Occupational Therapists look at functioning and have a key interest in facilitating independence with individuals with various disabilities. You will find research both looking at independence in a straighforward sense e.g. "can this individual wash, dress and feed themselves?" and also in the sense of flourishing e.g. "can this individual participate in society to their satisfaction?" or "can this person participate in their important roles?" If you are looking for studies with a particular population, let me know and I can let you know if I know of a particular piece of research. Kind regards.
You may want to check out research by Valery Chirkov on psychological autonomy:
http://artsandscience.usask.ca/profile/VChirkov/
Hi Colin, thank you for that, that link is very helpful. Thanks so much. I suppose it may be more prudent Jackie for you to understand the context of my search. I am looking at independence as defined as; 'Control over ones life based on the choice of options that minimize reliance on others in making decisions and in performing everyday activities' - I am not looking at the 'performing everyday activities' but at the choice and reliance on other for making decision, this is my particular area of interest. I am looking at children in the early years but have most recently been working with children with an intellectual age of junior infants (6/7) a physical age of 12/13 but with mild learning disabilities, Jackie if this helps at all. I suppose from an occupational health perspective daily this might mean where do you get your information from to supply adaptations? how is information collected from the child them self? If you can think of anything that would be great. Merisa
Hi Merisa,
Thanks for that - Intellectual disability is not my area (I work more in the area of mental health) but I understand what you mean about independance in decision-making and choices. I don't know if you have the below articles - maybe they could be helpful? I also think the work of Dr Corey Keyes is really interesting. He talks a lot about human flourishing and how it is a lot about being able to participate and have choices.
Arvidsson et al. (2008). Factors related to self-rated participation in adolescents and adults with mild intellectual disability - a systematic literature review. Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities, 21(3), 277-291.
Kjellberg A. (2002). More or less independent. Disability and Rehabilitation 24(16), 828-840
Wennberg B., Kjellberg A. (2010). Participation when using cognitive assistive devices--from the perspective of people with intellectual disabilities. Occupational therapy international,17(4), 168-176
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