Why is self-determination important?
Life has more meaning for all of us if we can have control over our daily activities, be respected for our choices about how we think and feel, and be considered a contributing and valuable member of our community. What may initially be perceived as a negative behavior related to disability, can many times be the result of the frustration and anger of students with disabilities who feel they are not being heard. Without self-determination as a primary goal and focus of the transition planning process, youth with disabilities have a higher risk of falling victim to abuse, neglect, and discrimination. IDEA acknowledges the importance of self-determination through the 1997 amendment that requires students to be invited to their IEP meetings. When youth with disabilities exercise personal control over their lives, they learn to take responsibility for their actions and experience the outcomes of their choices.
