What term describes the ability of individuals with disabilities to make their own choices and control their lives?

The term that best describes the ability of individuals with disabilities to make their own choices and control their lives is autonomy. Autonomy refers to the capacity to make informed, uncoerced decisions and to have the freedom to direct one’s own life. It is a fundamental concept particularly relevant to individuals with disabilities, as it emphasizes respecting their rights to self-determination and their ability to take an active role in managing their lives and choices.

While other terms such as independence, self-advocacy, and empowerment are related and significant in the context of disability, they do not capture the full essence of personal decision-making and control inherent in the concept of autonomy. Independence typically refers to the ability to perform tasks and activities without assistance, which, while important, does not specifically address the decision-making aspect. Self-advocacy focuses on the individual's ability to speak up for themselves and assert their needs, which is crucial, but it is part of a broader range of autonomy. Empowerment involves enabling individuals to take control and make choices, but it is more about the process of acquiring power and confidence rather than the intrinsic capacity for decision-making itself. Thus, autonomy stands out as the most accurate term for the given description.