
Davidson, NC 28036



Supporting NC Parents, Families and Educators of children and youth with Deaf-blindness
Self determination is a combination of skills, knowledge and beliefs that enable a person to engage in goal-directed, self-regulated, autonomous behavior. An understanding of one’s strengths and limitations together with a belief in oneself as capable and effective are essential to self-determination. When acting on the basis of these skills and attitudes, individuals have greater ability to take control of their lives and assume the role of successful adults in society.
What Are Some of the Characteristics of Self-Determined People?
Self-determined people exhibit a set of characteristics that enable them to fulfill roles typically associated with adulthood. There is wide agreement on some, if not most, of the characteristics of self-determination. The following have been proposed across multiple models or frameworks as characteristics of self-determined individuals:
From: A Practical Guide for Teaching Self-Determination, Sharon Field, Jim Martin, et al, Reston VA: Council for Exceptional Children, 1998.