Current trends and issues in understanding adults with developmental disabilities

Stephanie Z.C. MacFarland

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

4 Scopus citations

Abstract

This article provides an overview of individuals with developmental disabilities. Current definitions are discussed on the basis of the premise that individuals with developmental disabilities are people first, with a set of unique learning styles and skills. Labels, including intelligence quotient scores, do not tell us much about the individual or what he or she can do. A capacity model of describing a person's skills and characteristics is emphasized over a deficit model. Discussions of employment and living options are presented, including the continua of employment service and residential service programs as well as alternative supported work and living programs.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)171-178
Number of pages8
JournalSeminars in Hearing
Volume24
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 2003

Keywords

  • Capacity model
  • Communication
  • Definitions
  • Developmental disabilities
  • Employment programs
  • Functional skills
  • Living programs
  • Mental retardation
  • Severe disabilities
  • Supported work programs

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Speech and Hearing

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