Leadership and Self-Determination

Abstract

This article briefly reviews attributes and elements identified in the literature for promoting the self-determination and self-advocacy of people with disabilities. In addition, to identify which elements of self-determination and self-advocacy are discussed as elements of effective leadership, a small portion of the general leadership literature is also reviewed. Of specific interest is determining which self-determination practices that have emerged in the literature devoted to people with disabilities also appear in the general leadership literature as essential, generic leadership practices. Conceptual distinctions are drawn among the notions of self-determination, self-advocacy, empowerment, and leadership. A number of conclusions are drawn and are supported by the review, suggesting that (a) self-determination and self-advocacy are essential to effective leadership based on the frequency with which attributes of self-determination are identified as elements of effective leadership; (b) leadership involves skills, competencies, and strategies that focus on collective action to achieve common goals, whereas self-determination and self-advocacy typically focus on individual action directed toward personal goals; and (c) effective leadership is fundamentally an exercise in collective self-determination. Recommendations to increase the focus and attention to the leadership development of people with developmental disabilities are suggested.