Comparing opinions of people with developmental disabilities and significant persons in their lives using the Individual Supports Identification System (ISIS)

Fifty-two people with developmental disabilities were interviewed using the Individual Supports Identification System (ISIS). This study reports on pe rsons with developmental disabilities, served by the State of Washington Di vision of Developmental Disabilities, and includes persons whose onset of d isability was prior to 18 To be eligible for services, an Individual must h ave a disability that falls within one of the following categories: (1) men tal retardation; (2) cerebral palsy; (3) epilepsy; (4) autism; and (5) othe r types of central nervous system impairment closely related to mental reta rdation. Interviews were conducted with two groups. The first comprised ind ividuals with developmental disabilities and the second, significant person s in the life of each participant in the first group. A significant person was considered to be someone known by the individual with disabilities for more than 6 months, spending more time with him or her than others. In addi tion, the significant person must like the individual with disabilities, an d have his or her best interests in mind. Seventy-five per cent of signific ant persons interviewed were parents. Significant persons also responded to a series of ISIS questions. Responses from the individual with disabilitie s and from the significant person in his or her life were compared in order to determine similarities and differences an perspective. Comparisons focu s on issues pertaining to friends and relationships, living environment and daily care needs.