Self-efficacy and interdependence as predictors of life satisfaction for people with disabilities: Implications for independent living programs

Abstract

Independent Living Programs continue to search for ways through which their services can have a more positive impact on people with disabilities and can provide increased satisfaction with their lives. This study, conducted at a nonprofit community rehabilitation organization in southwestern Pennsylvania, was designed to assess the extent to which two different teaching goals of one Independent Living Program, self-efficacy and interdependence, influenced life satisfaction for people with disabilities. The study found that while both were significant variables, interdependence was a more significant predictor of life satisfaction. The recommendation for Independent Living Programs is that they focus on teaching interdependence as a life-style approach, in combination with teaching self-efficacy skills, to maximize the person's ability to achieve life satisfaction.