Autonomy

This is the ability to make one’s own choices independently, without coercion or the influence of third parties. Ultimately, it is the ability to choose freely. It refers to moral autonomy, which is the ability that we have to choose beyond physical autonomy or the possibility of performing certain actions without the help from third parties (Raffino, 2020).

Respect for autonomy and inherent dignity is one of the principles of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. As a result, it is one of the main causes of the social movement regarding disability.

Everyone has the right to exercise their autonomy; to control, face, and make their own decisions; and live according to their own standards and preferences. This cannot be restricted because a person needs support or is in a dependent situation. Moral autonomy should not be confused with physical autonomy; a person does not loose the right to decide because they require support from others or technical devices to perform certain every day tasks.

The autonomy of people with disabilities is often restricted because of discrimination and due to a lack of recognition of their legal capacity. One of the ways this is evident is that they are not given the option of planning decisions or expressing their will in advance should the moment arise when they cannot communicate their desires.