‘Wishing to go it alone’: the complicated interplay of independence, interdependence and agency

Abstract

Some individuals with disabilities for whom verbal speech is not reliable use facilitated communication to express thoughts and ideas. While they may require intensive physical support initially, the goal is independent typing. However, this emphasis on fading support and independence bears consideration. We utilize a Disability Studies lens to frame practices around independence and the complicated interplay between interdependence, agency and voice. Based on qualitative analysis of communication training sessions, we present four findings: the complexity of the message versus fading of physical support, the emotional dimensions of independence, the facilitator’s navigation of multiple roles, and the importance of facilitating agency. We also share implications of reframing independence and facilitating agency for the communication training process.

Keywords:

• independence
• communication
• agency
• autism
• Disability Studies

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Notes

1. When we refer to ‘influence,’ we refer to the concern that the messages produced through facilitated communication are not coming from the typer, but from the individuals providing the support. Questions of influence are essentially challenges to validity and authorship of the typed message.

2. Typed contributions from participants are indicated by capital letters.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the John P. Hussman Foundation.