Our Lives, Our Voices: Impact of Self-Advocacy Program on Persons with Intellectual Developmental Disability

Abstract

Objectives

The impact of self-advocacy for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities (PwIDDs) in improving their quality of life has been well-documented internationally but how the unique characteristics of Singapore could moderate the beneficial effects of self-advocacy remained unexplored. An evaluation of Our Lives, Our Voices (OLOV), a self-advocacy program for PwIDDs in Singapore, was undertaken with the aim of (1) measuring the effectiveness of the program in promoting self-advocacy within PwIDDs, (2) identifying the contributing factors to one’s growth in autonomy and confidence, and (3) factors that facilitate and hinder self-advocacy.

Methods

Using the mixed-methods approach, Phase 1 sought to measure the change in outcomes among the 10-week intakes, while Phase 2 identified key enabling and disabling factors contributing to the efficacy of the OLOV program. Before focus group discussions, caregivers and staff completed questionnaires to collect demographic information, and observations were conducted on self-advocates to facilitate discussions. Discussions were held with caregivers, staff, and self-advocates, with 91 and 96 participants in Phase 1 and Phase 2 evaluations, respectively.

Results

The OLOV program was successful in supporting self-advocates to attain improved outcomes in four domains: (1) Awareness of Rights, (2) Communication Skills, (3) Confidence to Speak Up, and (4) Ability to Practice Skills. The paper also highlighted factors that were found to facilitate one’s willingness to advocate for the self as well as those that discouraged the practice of self-advocacy.

Conclusions

The study underscored the importance of fostering self-confidence and a sense of autonomy among persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities as a means of encouraging them to advocate for themselves. In line with previous research, the potential of self-advocacy programs not only empowered PwIDDs but also promoted social inclusion by facilitating more positive interactions between PwIDDs and the general public. Additionally, the research identifies key factors that should be considered in the development of such programs.