Fostering self-advocacy development in service-based self-advocacy groups.
Saved in:
| Title: | Fostering self-advocacy development in service-based self-advocacy groups. |
|---|---|
| Authors: | Mc Carthy, John (AUTHOR), McTaggart, Valerie (AUTHOR) |
| Source: | Journal of Intellectual & Developmental Disability. Dec2025, Vol. 50 Issue 4, p398-410. 13p. |
| Subjects: | Human services programs, Qualitative research, Self-efficacy, Interviewing, Descriptive statistics, Intellectual disabilities, Research methodology, Self advocacy, Social support, Data analysis software, Special education |
| Abstract: | Background: While the importance of self-advocacy for those with an intellectual disability is well recognised, little is known about how organisations can support self-advocacy development by implementing self-advocacy groups. Method: This inclusive research study collected empirical data from fourteen self-advocates, two managers, three group supporters, and one advocacy coordinator, all experienced and involved in an established not-for-profit service-based self-advocacy group. Results: Our findings identified several benefits of being involved in a self-advocacy group, including confidence-building, belonging, social inclusion, empowerment and affecting positive social change for the wider community. To ensure the success of self-advocacy groups, there must be "A Space and Place", "Meaningful Inclusion", and "Learning to Lead Opportunities". Conclusion: Despite the positive benefits associated with self-advocacy, challenges remain. Society's expectations about self-advocacy are often not translated into practice, inclusion can be superficial, and a balance between independence and assistance is difficult to achieve where support is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
| Copyright of Journal of Intellectual & Developmental Disability is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.) | |
| Database: | Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection |
|
Full text is not displayed to guests.
Login for full access.
|
|
| Abstract: | Background: While the importance of self-advocacy for those with an intellectual disability is well recognised, little is known about how organisations can support self-advocacy development by implementing self-advocacy groups. Method: This inclusive research study collected empirical data from fourteen self-advocates, two managers, three group supporters, and one advocacy coordinator, all experienced and involved in an established not-for-profit service-based self-advocacy group. Results: Our findings identified several benefits of being involved in a self-advocacy group, including confidence-building, belonging, social inclusion, empowerment and affecting positive social change for the wider community. To ensure the success of self-advocacy groups, there must be "A Space and Place", "Meaningful Inclusion", and "Learning to Lead Opportunities". Conclusion: Despite the positive benefits associated with self-advocacy, challenges remain. Society's expectations about self-advocacy are often not translated into practice, inclusion can be superficial, and a balance between independence and assistance is difficult to achieve where support is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
|---|---|
| ISSN: | 13668250 |
| DOI: | 10.3109/13668250.2025.2474199 |
