What is one key responsibility of a Direct Support Professional (DSP)?

A key responsibility of a Direct Support Professional (DSP) is to assist individuals in achieving personal goals. This role is centered around supporting individuals with disabilities in leading fulfilling lives and promoting their independence. By helping them set and work towards personal goals, DSPs empower individuals to develop skills, enhance their confidence, and improve their overall quality of life. This support can include helping with daily living activities, facilitating social interactions, or enabling access to educational and vocational opportunities.

In contrast, making decisions on behalf of individuals can undermine their autonomy and independence, which is contrary to the fundamental values of the DSP role. Enforcing rules strictly may not align with the supportive and person-centered approach that DSPs are trained to uphold, while limiting interactions with family goes against the principles of inclusion and community that are crucial for the well-being of the individuals they support. Thus, the focus remains on collaboration and encouragement of personal growth, which makes assisting individuals in achieving their personal goals a central aspect of a DSP's responsibilities.