Humanization: The humanistic perspective as a guide for supporting people with intellectual disability

Background

Despite humanistic declarations regarding the rights of people with intellectual disability to live a full, meaningful life, in practice, resulting from dilemmas experienced by direct support provides, support is often limited to a focus on functional independence. The aim of this research was to define the theoretical principles by which the gap between humanistic declarations and practice can be overcome.

Method

The research focused on the role perception of 30 direct support providers who participated in semistructured interviews. A case study methodology was used applying an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA).

Findings

The interviews revealed that a humanistic perspective has been partially incorporated into the general attitudes of direct support providers. In practice, however, they indicated that they face dilemmas that challenge them in their daily work.

Conclusion

To assist direct support providers in resolving their dilemmas, by adhering to humanistic principles, a ‘humanization’ model is offered. The theoretical principles underlying the model focus on meaningful life as the aim of support, enhancing recipients’ autonomy, adhering to a holistic perspective and conducting dialogues acknowledging the abilities of people with intellectual disability to understand, choose and face challenges. Further examination of the model and its application in practice is recommended.