How does culture influence perspectives on self-determination?
A common goal of most cultures is that our children and youth grow to be responsible and caring adults within their community, clan, extended family, or other configuration of culture. Many Native American or clan cultures have rights of passage ceremonies or events that promote a sense of independence, autonomy, and mastery. The key difference within a clan culture is that an individual’s sense of self is connected to the entire community and that choices and goals are built around the needs of the entire community. The terms “self-determination” and “independence” may not be used within a clan culture. Elders and other family members may in fact be the ones who make decisions and guide the younger members of that culture toward the future. For teachers and other adults who work with youth with disabilities, this may mean that the family, especially the elders, are included in discussions about self-determination and self-advocacy and that culturally specific rights of passage or ritu
