An Examination of the Relationship between Postschool Outcomes and Autonomy, Psychological Empowerment, and Self-Realization

Y

31

Institute of Education Sciences (ED)

R324A110041

Personal Autonomy; Empowerment; Self Actualization; Disabilities; Longitudinal Studies; Transitional Programs; Special Education; Self Determination; Employment; Independent Living; Postsecondary Education; Compensation (Remuneration); Enrollment; Secondary School Students; Interpersonal Relationship; Predictor Variables

This study examined, using data from the National Longitudinal Transition Study-2, the impact of constructs associated with self-determination (i.e., autonomy, self-realization, and psychological empowerment, measured while youth were in secondary school) on postschool (a) employment and payment/benefits, (b) education, (c) independent living, and (d) social engagement outcomes. Findings suggest that up to 8 years after youth exited school, autonomy, self-realization, and psychological empowerment predict postschool outcomes. Psychological empowerment showed a strong relationship with employment wages and benefits, and autonomy and self-realization contributed to predicting independent living and postsecondary education enrollment. Implications for future research and practice are discussed. [At the time of submission to ERIC this article was in press with "Journal of Special Education."]

As Provided

45

2016

ED572708