PURPOSE

A common barrier to self-determination is the perception that people with disabilities are more likely to be exposed to dangerous situations and therefore must be protected.  The purpose of this module is to present a discussion of the risks involved in living a self-directed life and ways to overcome the fears of risk through effective planning and teamwork.

1. Understand that fear of danger is often a barrier to  self-

    determination for many people with disabilities.
2. Identify ways to openly discuss risks and potential safe guards

    that provide the adult with a disability the opportunity to live a

    self-directed life.
3. Understand that "risk," "danger," and "appropriate" are best

    defined by each person and their Circle of Support and that the

    role of the Support Broker is to help create a responsive

    personal plan that promotes self-direction as well as identifies

    safeguards. 

INTRODUCTION
Perhaps one of the biggest challenges facing Support Brokers is the issue regarding risk and decision making. Family, friends, and other support providers often express fear and concern about what represents a "safe" decision. While health and safety are always a concern, adults with disabilities, like most of their friends and family, do have the right to make decisions and take risks that some people might consider unsafe.

Making choices and taking risks is a key part of living a self-directed life. We all take risks. It is through these risks and the decision making process that we learn, mature, and develop a sense of self-worth and confidence. Historically, individuals with disabilities have been shielded from taking risks and protected from engaging in activities that might be seen as potentially harmful. However, if we listen, people with disabilities are telling us that they are no different from you and me. They are telling us that they too have the right to sleep in too late, or overeat on occasion or potentially even to do something crazy like go skydiving.

IDENTIFYING RISKS AND DEVELOPING SUPPORTS
A critical part of the Support Broker's job is to assist the adult with a disability and his Circle of Support to identify the potential risks and dangerous associated the the personal plan and prioritize what kinds of supports are needed to minimize unnecessary failure or harm. Be aware that there are no right or wrong answers. Identifying risk and solutions that are acceptable to everyone can be a delicate process. This is particularly true in cases where an individual's choices have been limited in the name of protection. Ultimately, the person with the disability should be able to choose an activity and accept the risks and responsibilities that go along with that choice. The problem comes when not everyone agrees about what is a "safe" decision.

Perhaps Jim Baugh, a parent, says it best. Please watch and listen as Mr. Baugh discusses risk and choice.

Jim Baugh Is there a difference between how you define risk for your friends or family members and how you would define risk for yourself?  How can differences in definitions be overcome?

 

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