The IDD Paradigm of Shared Citizenship: Its Operationalization, Application, Evaluation, and Shaping for the Future

Abstract

Changes in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) over the last 5 decades has resulted in the emergence of the shared citizenship paradigm. This paradigm is currently guiding the development of IDD-related policies and practices, and providing a framework for application, research-based inquiry, and evaluation. A shared citizenship paradigm is one that envisions, supports, and requires the engagement and full participation of people with IDD as equal, respected, valued, participatory, and contributing members of every aspect of society. The overall goals of the paradigm are to (a) further advance and focus on people with IDD as active agents in the change process, and (b) improve outcomes for people with IDD, including their access to and opportunity for shared citizenship. This article describes the paradigm's operationalization, application, evaluation, shaping for the future, and specific strategies to overcome implementation challenges.

Keywords: intellectual and developmental disabilities; paradigm application and evaluation; paradigm shifts; shared citizenship paradigm.