Between power and powerlessness - discourses in the individual plan processes, a Norwegian dilemma

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to explore what may cause tensions in the work with IP processes and discuss this in the light of power and powerlessness. The project is designed as a multi-case study. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured individual interviews and observations from group meetings. Quantitative data were collected through a questionnaire focusing on activities of daily living, as well as from documents such as the available individual plan itself and official minutes of the meetings. The analysis of the material is based on a sociological discourse analysis. The three power discourses disclosed were power of knowledge, power of language, and power of definition. Power of knowledge refers to the clients' expert knowledge of themselves as well as the professionals' knowledge whereas the informants experienced power of language, as a physical, psychological, and social instrument to present the client's case. The holder of power of knowledge and power of language possesses the power of definition regarding the individual plan process, but the study revealed nuances in this relationship. More attention and self-awareness should be paid to the relationship between the trust professionals are given by the clients and the position of power this entails when collaborating in IP processes. © 2012 Copyright Nordic Network on Disability Research.