Differences Among Family and Professional Guardians: A Statewide Survey of Characteristics, Training, and Practices Related to Decision-making

Authors

Kristin Hamre, Indiana UniversityFollow
Derek NordFollow

Abstract

This cross-sectional study sought to examine the differences between family and professional guardians across personal and role characteristics, training received, and their inclusion of people they serve in decision making. A total of 237 subjects serving as guardian to adults in the state of Indiana completed an online survey. Results showed group differences across race, education, as well as diagnosis and age of those served. Overall, training was limited across both groups, and family guardians received significantly less training across several topics. Finally, family and professional guardians were found to significantly differ in their willingness to allow people they serve to inform and/or make decisions about spending money, working in the community, and treating a medical condition. Study implications for policy and practice are also discussed, along with recommendations about integrating values of self-determination and empowerment approaches into practice.

Plain Language Summary

This study examined the differences between family and professional guardians. A total of 237 subjects serving as guardian to adults in the state of Indiana completed an online survey. Results showed group differences across race, education, diagnosis, and age of those served. Guardian types showed differences in their willingness to allow people to assist with decisions. There were also differences in their willingness to allow people to make decisions. Areas include: spending money, working in the community, and treating a medical condition. Study implications for policy and practice also discussed.

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 4.0 License.

Recommended Citation

Hamre, Kristin and Nord, Derek (2023) "Differences Among Family and Professional Guardians: A Statewide Survey of Characteristics, Training, and Practices Related to Decision-making," Developmental Disabilities Network Journal: Vol. 3: Iss. 2, Article 13.
DOI: 10.59620/2694-1104.1076
Available at: https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/ddnj/vol3/iss2/13