People First of West Virginia

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2 people at the People First conference

Self-determination or taking control of one's life has been defined in a variety of ways. Field, Martin, Miller, Ward, and Wehmeyer (1998) offer this definition: Self-determination is a combination of skills, knowledge and beliefs that enable a person to engage in goal directed, self-regulated, autonomous behavior. An understanding of one's strengths and limitations together with a belief in oneself as capable and effective are essential to self-determination. When acting on the basis of these skills and attitudes, individuals have greater ability to take control of their lives and assume the role of successful adults in our society.




People First of West Virginia • 912 Market Street, Parkersburg, WV  26101
phone 304-422-3151 • fax 304-865-2072 • toll-free 1-877-334-6581
info@peoplefirstwv.org / www.peoplefirstwv.org


A program of The Arc of West Virginia • Funding provided by the West Virginia Developmental Disabilities Council

People First of WV © 2011

We are individuals with developmental disabilities joining together to speak up and speak out for ourselves!