What is Self-Determination?

What is Self-Determination?

Self-determination incorporates a set of concepts and values which underscore a core belief that people who require support from the public mental health system as a result of a disability should be able to define what they need in terms of the life they seek, should have access to meaningful choices, and control over their lives. Michigan’s Self-Determination Initiative is aiming for major system change which will assure that services and supports for people are not only person-centered, but person-defined and person-controlled. Self-determination is based on five principles. These are:

• FREEDOM: The ability for individuals, with chosen family and/or friends, to plan a life with necessary supports, rather than purchase a program;
• AUTHORITY: The ability for a person with a disability to control a certain sum of dollars in order to purchase these supports, with the backing of a social network or circle of friends, if needed;
• SUPPORT: The arranging of resources and personnel — both formal and informal — so to assist a person with a disability to live a life in the community, rich in community associations and contributions, and;
• RESPONSIBILITY: The acceptance of a valued role in a person’s community through employment, affiliations, spiritual development, and general caring for others, as well as accountability for spending public dollars in ways that are life-enhancing, and;
• CONFIRMATION: The ability to have a role in redesigning the Service system.