Experiences, benefits and value of self-advocacy among people with intellectual disabilities

Abstract

This article presents a study on the experiences, value, and effects of self-advocacy among persons with intellectual disabilities. The study aims to reveal the meaning and benefits of self-advocacy in the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities by analysing their lived experiences of self-advocacy and social workers’ perspectives. The following research question was posed: How do the actors involved in self-advocacy activities – persons with intellectual disabilities and social workers – describe their experiences, meanings, and perceived benefits of such activities? The results of a qualitative analysis are presented in this article. Three objectives were formulated: To contextualise the concept of self-advocacy within the field of social work, to reveal the harmful effects of discrimination on the self-esteem and self-expression of people with intellectual disabilities, and to explore the challenges, individual benefits, and societal value of self-advocacy. The study included four social workers and seven individuals with intellectual disabilities. Data analysis revealed that self-advocacy is a multidimensional phenomenon encompassing the ability to speak up for oneself, independence, emotional well-being, self-confidence, and support from the surrounding environment. Opportunities for self-advocacy are often constrained by persistent stereotypes that undermine individuals’ self-trust. Nevertheless, the study showed that self-advocacy is a powerful tool for empowerment, contributing to identity formation, social engagement, and reducing discrimination. These findings suggest that social work should not be limited to individual-level service provision. Instead, its mission should include initiating broader systemic change—raising awareness among persons with disabilities and the general public, strengthening the implementation of human rights, and creating supportive structures in which every person is heard and recognised.