Transition to independent living: Signs of self‐determination in the discussions of Mexican students with intellectual disability

Accessible summary Self-determination means that people decide for themselves about their future. is very important in people's transition to adulthood and independent living. Six young adults talked with peers facilitators living an independent-living flat Mexico. We wanted learn what it was like these The shared that: (a) It decision whether move flat; (b) They feel independently challenging; (c) Learning new things at contexts makes them good as adults. Talking experiences planning transitions according own strengths interests. others can help where whom live. Background Young intellectual disability experience they towards adult Transition supported by self-determination, comprising volition (making conscious choices) agency (acting intention). Dialogic interactions legitimise students’ voices potentially promote self-determination. Consequently, this project aimed involve actively talking together futures. Methods research took place a university-based programme Mexico: Building Bridges. Mexican participated. focused on of self-determination personal, social, educational contexts. Data collection incorporated discussion sessions participant observations. In discussions, students Bridges, flat. A thematic analysis conducted. Findings Bridges difficult, but believed were learning growing support. Regarding the context, perceive or not decision, challenging, are make themselves. Conclusions Listening views prompts consideration how programmes could enhance For instance, reflecting negotiating rules them; giving options, such sleeping one day per week initially. exercised within context relationships. Creating spaces dialogues allows educators and/or researchers reflect might be way know experiences, plan based