Advocacy

        So much of my focus [due to personal experience] on this website is geared toward physical disabilities. It is true that many of the problem solving approaches are universal; whether you have a physical, emotional or cognitive 'condition'. Regretfully, I have not posted any details regarding issues for people with developmental disabilities. It was made abundantly clear when I was researching self advocacy.
        "Developmental disabilities are a group of conditions due to an impairment in physical, learning, language, or behavior areas. About one in six children in the U.S. have one or more developmental disabilities or other developmental delays." (from the CDC website)

Specific conditions listed as Developmental Disabilities are:

• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity
  Disorder
• Autism Spectrum Disorders
• Cerebral Palsy
• Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
• Fragile X Syndrome

• Hearing Loss
  Intellectual Disability 
• Kernicterus
• Muscular Dystrophy
• Tourette Syndrome
• Vision Impairment 

Each condition in the above lists are links for specific details of each.

        The self-advocacy movement seeks to reduce the isolation of people with disabilities [especially developmental disabilities; also grouped as 'intellectual disabilities'] and give them the tools and experience to take greater control over their own lives. People with these challenges have historically been the folks that were placed in group homes and / or institutions. They have traditionally not been included in making decisions affecting there own lives.
        We all have basic civil / human rights. I am embarrassed to admit that I have neglected this group in my writing to date. However, I will continue to advocate for the rights of ALL people, regardless of whether they have a disability or not; regardless of the kind of disability they may have.