Work

Best Practices for Developing and Evaluating Supported Decision-Making Resources: A Sequential Delphi Panel With Disability Self-Advocates and Experts

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: People with disabilities may face restrictive guardianship arrangements that limit their autonomy. Supported decision-making (SDM) is an alternative framework that allows individuals to maintain decision-making authority with assistance from trusted supporters. As states implement SDM legislation, high-quality resources are needed to guide implementation. This study used a sequential modified Delphi panel with 48 participants, including 31 disability self-advocates and 17 academic and professional experts, to create best practice guidelines for developing and evaluating SDM resources. Through four feedback rounds conducted from January to October 2025, researchers refined a rubric assessing six domains: self-determination, respectful language, ease of use, cultural diversity, authentic disability involvement, and clear supporter roles. The resulting tool provides practical guidance for developing SDM materials that promote autonomy and self-determination.

Source: Inclusion

DOI: 10.1080/23266988.2026.2709111