Autonomy, dependency,

self-Esteem & Quality of life of

people with complex learning disabilities -

An inclusive research

Dana Roth Ph.D.

Beit Issie Shapiro’s vision is that every

person with a disability is entitled to full

equal rights, and to be integrated and

active in community life.

BIS Strategy of Social Change in the Field of Disabilities

Innovative Service Models

Changing Policy &

Awareness

Research & Training

National - Israel

International

Broad Partnerships

Nothing about us without us

No research about us without us

(Oliver, 1992)

Emancipatory, participatory, inclusive , collaborative Research (Bigby, 2014)

The Research Question

Is there a relationship between

Autonomy/Dependence, Self-

esteem & Quality of life of people

with complex learning? disabilities

Pre Study Discussion

• What is the difference between Autonomy

& Dependency?

• Does disability means dependence?

• Are autonomy & dependency Antonyms?

• Is autonomy positive & dependency

negative?

Research Measures

2. Autonomy, Dependence scale (ACS -30) (Bekker & Van - Assen, 2006).

1. Quality of life Questionnaire (Cummins, 2005).

3. Self Esteem Questionnaire (Rosenberg, 1965)

• Autonomy in relationships

• Autonomy in thinking

• Initiations

% Gender49.1 Female55.9 Male

Age33.9 Mean7.2 S.D.21-54 Range

Employment Statues %90.9 Employed

9.1 Un-EmployedNo response

Family Statues %69.9 Single31.1 In

relationship

Residential Setting %10.1 Independent14.7 With parents37.6 Satellite 13.8 Training apt.

8.3 Therapeutic apt.

Social Demographic Profile N = 109

Means & Correlations of Measures

Quality of life Self Image Relationships Thinking Initiative0

0.5

1

1.5

2

2.5

3

3.5

4

r=.461

r=.320

r=.501

r=.354

r=.292

Autonomy Measures

Conclusion & Recommendations

Emphasis must be present from early

intervention on:

Self image

Autonomy (Independent thinking,

relationships & initiative)