Supported decision-making
Last updated
Supported decision-making lets an adult with a disability make their own choices with help from trusted people they choose.
Topic: Transition and adult life
In plain terms
Instead of someone else making decisions for them, the person keeps the right to decide and gets support to understand options, weigh them and communicate a choice. Supporters might be family, friends or professionals. Some states recognize written supported decision-making agreements in law. It can be a less restrictive alternative to guardianship.
How it shows up in an IEP
Transition planning can include learning about decision-making options before the age of majority. Goals can build the skills, such as identifying supporters or comparing two choices.
Example
Before turning 18, a student practices a decision about a phone plan with a parent and a teacher as supporters, writing down options, costs and the final choice.
The rule
Rules vary by state. Check your state's regulations and your district's procedures.
Related terms
- GuardianshipGuardianship is a court process that gives another person legal authority to make some or all decisions for an adult judged unable to make them.
- Age of majorityThe age of majority is the age, set by state law and usually 18, at which a person is legally treated as an adult who makes their own decisions.
- Transfer of rightsTransfer of rights is the shift of special education decision-making rights from parents to the student when the student reaches the state's age of majority.
- Self-determinationSelf-determination is a person's ability and opportunity to make choices, set goals and take action toward the life they want.
On IEP Atlas
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