Exploring self-determination and satisfaction with life and services of people with disabilities

Abstract

Objectives: This study explores the association between Satisfaction with Life (SwL) and Satisfaction with Services (SwS) among people with disabilities in institutions or day care services in Luxembourg. In line with Self-Determination Theory (SDT), it examines whether this association is mediated by the fulfilment of basic needs for autonomy, competence and relatedness. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 152 adults with intellectual, motor disabilities or autism spectrum disorders living in institutions or attending day services. The survey included information on demographics, SwS, SwL and basic psychological needs. A mediation model was implemented using structural equation modelling. Results: Findings reveal a positive correlation between SwS and SwL. SwL was positively associated with competence and relatedness. In contrast, SwS was negatively associated with autonomy. The relationship between SwS and SwL was fully mediated by competence, as the direct effect of SwS on SwL was not significant when mediators were considered. Conclusions: These results suggest that SwS is associated with higher self-perceived competence, which is associated with higher SwL. This highlights the importance of competence-building activities in institutional settings to enhance SwL of people with disabilities. Future research should explore the role of autonomy in institutional settings and investigate strategies to support autonomy.