Date of Award

5-1-1997

Document Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Social Work (MSW)

Department

Social Work

First Advisor

Glenda Rooney, PhD.

Second Advisor

Laura Boisen, PhD.

Third Advisor

Jean Miller LGSW

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis was to evaluate the semi-independent living skills program offered to individuals with developmental disabilities. The goal of the study was to determine what services are being provided by this program as well as to determine if and in what ways they contribute to client self-sufficiency. The study was exploratory and used quantitative and qualitative research methods. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with four county social workers and seven coordinators of the semi-independent living skills program.

Study results revealed several factors which affect the ability of clients to obtain their highest level of independence possible. Most prominent among these factors were: 1) The ability level of the client, 2) skill of the SILS staff to provide training in areas of need, and 3) the level of involvement of the case manager to coordinate and monitor services to ensure that goals are being met. Differences observed in the identified services provided were in transportation, socialization and in the definition of, quality of life.

Skill of the case manager as well as the direct service staff were found to be the most significant factors in determining whether the semi-independent living skills program would promote client independence or create dependency

Identifier

SC 11.MSW.1997.SulflowZ.B

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