Can Life Story Work help young people with Intellectual Disability build identity?
Life Story Work is a method that uses personal stories to help people understand who they are. Research shows this approach allows young people with intellectual disability to define themselves through their interests, family, and personal traits. This process helps them see their disability as one part of their life, not the only thing that defines them.
What the research says
Studies using Life Story Work found that participants described themselves based on roles, relationships, interests, and values. They did not define themselves primarily by their diagnostic labels. Instead, disability appeared as a contextual part of their identity 35.
These narratives also showed that identity is a dynamic process that changes over time. Key life transitions and family support played a central role in fostering a positive sense of self. The work helps individuals negotiate between how they see themselves and how others view them 35.
While most research focuses on older adults, the principles apply to young people as well. Programs have shown potential for improving quality of life and socialization skills in people with intellectual disabilities 4. Better communication abilities often lead to greater benefits from these programs 4.
What to ask your doctor
- Can we use Life Story Work to help my child explore their personal interests and values?
- How can we ensure family relationships are highlighted as a positive part of their identity?
- What methods can we use to help them negotiate their self-perception against social stigma?
- How can we document their identity as a dynamic process rather than a fixed label?
This question is drawn from common patient questions about Primary Care & Family Medicine and answered using cited medical research. We do not provide individualized advice.