Self-Determination

The right and ability of individuals to make choices and decisions about their own lives, bodies, and futures without external coercion or control. In disability rights, self-determination is a core principle affirming that disabled people should have agency over their own care, relationships, living arrangements, education, and technology use. Self-determination theory in psychology identifies autonomy, competence, and relatedness as fundamental human needs. Accessible technology design supports self-determination when it empowers users to make their own choices rather than imposing solutions or restricting options.