What is Self-Determination?
Why is it Important?
“Developing the ability to attain goals based on the foundation of knowing and valuing oneself”
- Field and Hoffman
Self-Determination Defined
Skills, knowledge, and beliefs that enable a person to engage in behavior that is:
Goal directed
Self-regulated
Autonomous
The ability to understand one’s strengths and weaknesses
Belief in oneself as capable and effective
(Field, Martin, Miller, Ward, & Wehmeyer, 1998)
8 Components of Self-Determination
Choice-Making – communicating preferences
Problem-Solving – identifying problems and generating solutions
Decision-Making – the process of determining the best solution
Goal-Setting and Attainment – defining goals, assessing current statuses, creating action plans, and evaluating progress
Self-Regulation – examining environment and choosing appropriate responses
Self-Awareness – having comprehensive and reasonably accurate knowledge of your own strengths and limitations
Self-Efficacy – believing you can accomplish goals
Self-Advocacy – communicating your wants and needs appropriately
(Wehmeyer, 1996)
Self-Determination Resources
Casey Life Skills- Casey Life Skills (CLS) is a set of free tools that assess the independent skills youth need to achieve their long-term goals. It aims to guide youth toward developing healthy, productive lives.
Transition Tennessee- Activities and resources to help you prepare for life after high school
Self-Determination Activities from National Technical Assistance Center on Transition: The Collaborative (NTACT:C)- Lessons and activities that promote self-determination skills and increase student involvement in their transition IEP processes.
Quickbook of Transition Assessments This guide will provide technical assistance to school districts and/or agencies that provide special education or special education and related services to youth with disabilities.