Social inclusion and self-determination: The challenges in the quality of life of youth with autism and intellectual disability

Abstract

Among the groups which have had least benefit from the progress in applicating the quality of life concept are children and youth with autism. The aim of this study is presenting the new scale KidsLife-asd and the first results after its application. The sample was composed of 420 people with intellectual disability and autism between 4 and 21 years old who were attending 78 Spanish organizations. The KidsLife-asd scale was used, which evaluates quality of life personal outcomes of youth with autism and intellectual disabilities. The highest results were obtained in material wellbeing and personal development, while the lowest scores were shown in social inclusion and self-determination. The results from the study are discussed and future lines are proposed to enhance the quality of life of this group.