Abstract:

Independent living and interpersonal relations, consist two major issues, which are directly associated with the concept of quality of life of individuals with intellectual disability, especially during the transition to adult life. The main goal of the present study is to examine individuals’ views and perspectives about independent living and interpersonal relationships in an effort to hear their voices and identify their needs. The research method used was a questionnaire, divided in two sections: (a) interpersonal relationships, and (b) independent living. Participants were 44 individuals with intellectual disability, from special education units in Greece. The results have shown that individuals with intellectual disability (a) lack of independent living skills (b) face limited chances for independence, and that (c) social isolation and insufficient quality of life are being enhanced by poor interpersonal relationships. The strong dependence on family, the inadequate educational programs for IL and IR skills, the under development of friendly relations, the friendship sources and the relationships of family members are some of the issues which emerged from the study.

Keywords:

Intellectual disability, independent living, interpersonal relations, transition to adulthood.