Abstract

In this paper, we argue for a value-based approach to enhancing personal outcomes for persons with a disability. Personal outcomes extend the psychological micro level. The rationale behind a value-based holistic approach is found in seven international movements that are influencing societal views and practices regarding persons with intellectual disability and related developmental disabilities (IDD). An explicit framework that goes beyond the psychological micro level in supporting people with a disability should come in place. In this paper, we argue for a value-based approach to enhancing personal outcomes for persons with a disability. In the field of disability, the concept of quality of life has evolved from a sensitizing notion to a measurable construct that includes eight domains and their respective indicators listed in Table 1. The QOL conceptual and measurement framework as summarized in Table 1 has been empirically validated across different cultures and countries [1-3]. In terms of personal outcomes, the concept of quality of life allows one to understand the context of human functioning and the potential of individuals to grow and develop across each of the eight domains summarized in Table 1.

Table 1:Quality of life conceptual and measurement framework.