The Institutional Conditions of the Life of People with Intellectual Disabilities (ID) in a Residential Care Facility

Jakub Niedbalski

doi:10.18778/1733-8069.18.2.04

Authors

Jakub Niedbalski University of Lodz https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2803-7628

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18778/1733-8069.18.2.04

Keywords:

autonomy, care facility, control, institutional care, intellectual disability, interpersonal relationships

Abstract

The paper is intended to show a system of institutional care for people with intellectual disabilities, which is characterized by a kind of ambivalence. The whole disquisition is based on two fundamental and dichotomous categories: control and subordination versus autonomy and independence. Each of these categories is connected with one of two perspectives within which a residential care facility can be captured. The first one arises from Goffman’s vision of a total institution, where a unit is presented as an objectified subject of other people’s actions, revealing a situation of isolation and personal dependence. The second perspective presents a model of relationships between the personnel and their charges; it is characterized by an individualistic approach toward the needs of people with disabilities regarding their right to autonomy and self-determination. The confrontation between these two perspectives and areas of issues is discussed in this paper.

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Author Biography

Jakub Niedbalski, University of Lodz

Jakub Niedbalski, a sociologist, a staff member employed in the Department of Sociology of Organization and Management of the Institute of Sociology, University of Lodz; committed to both teaching and research. He specializes in the computer-assisted analysis of qualitative data, qualitative research methods, the sociology of disability, and the sociology of sport. He researches the social activation of people with disabilities as well as the situation of families with people with disabilities, including entities and institutions supporting them. He is the author of several dozens of scientific publications devoted to the issues of disability, social assistance, and the qualitative research methodology.

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