Definition

People with learning disabilities are often denied the opportunity to make choices about issues that are important to them. The verb ‘to choose’ has been defined by Smyth and Bell (2006: 228) as ‘the process by which people come to a conclusion regarding different options that are perceived to be available’. However, this definition may only reflect one aspect of the process, as Harris (2003) believes that ‘choice’ can refer both to the process of making the decision and the act of expressing that choice. The facilitation of choice for people with learning disabilities is a process which impinges on issues that are central to current [Page 45]service philosophies, such as empowerment, autonomy, self-determination, quality of life, and advocacy. The concept of choice can also ...