Assessing choice making of a person with profound disabilities: A preliminary analysis

Author(s): Mochizuki, A.

Journal/Book: J Assn Pers Severe Handicap. 1995; 20: 29 W Susquehanna Ave, Ste 210, Baltimore, MD 21204-5201. Assn Pers Severe Handicap. 196-201.

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine two issues in choice-making research through a case study assessing the leisure-activity preferences of a woman with profound mental retardation in a residential setting. The issues include (a) providing the participant with the option of expressing ''no'' for given choice options and (b) analyzing environmental variables that might control choice-making behavior. The investigation consisted of two experiments; single-subject designs were used in each. The results of the two experiments suggested that (a) the participant could express distinct musical preference when given choice-making opportunities; (b) adding as a choice option a notebook that signaled the termination of a session allowed the participant to express a preference for ending the session when only less preferred options were presented; and (c) preference patterns varied with the activity partner and/or the locale. Results are discussed in terms of choice making and autonomy leading to an improved quality of life.

Note: Article K Nozaki, Aichi Human Serv Ctr, Inst Dev Res, Dept Psychol & Human Support, 713-8 Kamiya CHO, Kasugai, Aichi 48003, Japan

Keyword(s): MENTAL-RETARDATION; PREFERENCES; ADULTS

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