The lived experience of empowerment and overprotection on (in)dependent living of persons with intellectual disability

Abstract

This study investigated how persons with intellectual disabilities in Malta experience either empowerment or overprotection in their daily lives. One-to-one interviews were conducted with four adults with intellectual disabilities and their mothers. Data were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Two persons with intellectual disability were found to be empowered, while the other two were found to be overprotected. Empowerment fosters opportunities for personal and social development, more possibilities for relationships and more personal time and privacy – all of which support independent living. Overproctetion reinforces the lack of independent living skills, social isolation and lack of personal time and space. Support services are needed to break the cycle of overprotection. These services should consider and support the needs of individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families.