Date of Conferral

7-29-2025

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Andrea Goldstein

Abstract

The living environment of group homes and family homes offer different qualities of life for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Guardian perceptions may shed light on how individuals with intellectual disabilities perceive their experiences, environments, and daily lives. Exploring and examining this social problem may positively impact policies, processes, and procedures, and have an impact on the lives of parents, families, and individuals with intellectual disabilities while driving positive social change. The purpose of this qualitative study using narrative inquiry was to explore, examine, and better understand guardian perceptions. The quality-of-life theoretical framework and Saldana’s process of color coding were used to address the following research question: What are the guardian perceptions of living in group homes versus family homes for individuals with intellectual disabilities? Fifteen guardians of individuals with intellectual disabilities were interviewed using an eight-item, email questionnaire. Key findings illustrated that guardians perceived that their choice of living environment was best suited for the individual and family. Two guardians identified self-development as a concern for their loved one living in the family home. Further research on guardian perceptions of living in group homes versus family homes for individuals with intellectual disabilities can impact the quality of life for this vulnerable population. This study has potential implications for positive social change at the individual, family, organizational, policy, and societal levels by bringing awareness to and influencing the acceptance of individuals with intellectual disabilities.

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