A Definition of Self Determination,
National Program Office on Self Determination, USA

We are grateful to the National Program Office on Self Determination, a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Program, for this definition which can be found at http://www.self-determination.org. The organization works primarily in the area of developmental disabilities.

På svenska / in Swedish

The Four Principles of Self Determination

FREEDOM: the exercise of the same rights as all citizens. People with disabilities with assistance when necessary will establish where they want to live, with whom they want to live and how their time will be occupied. They do not have to trade their inalienable rights guaranteed under the Constitution for supports or services.

AUTHORITY: the control over whatever sums of money are needed for one's own support, including the re-prioritizing of these dollars when necessary. This is accomplished through the development of an individual budget that "moves" with the person.

SUPPORT: the organization of these resources as determined by the person with a disability. This means that individuals do not receive "supervision" and "staffing." Rather, folks with disabilities may seek companionship for support and contract for any number of discrete tasks for which they need assistance.

RESPONSIBILITY: the wise use of public dollars. Dollars are now being used as an investment in a person's life and not handled as resources to purchase services or slots. Responsibility includes the ordinary obligations of American citizens and allows individuals to contribute to their communities in meaningful ways.