Supported Decision Making: Ensuring Relationship Quality in Adult Guardianship : (Contributions from a Psychological Perspective)

According to the standards of the UN Disability Rights Convention, the main task of adult guardianship is to support people with disabilities in such a manner that both their will and preference are recognized. To achieve this goal, a person-centered approach in guardianship is an essential prerequisite. The guardianship law in Germany was reformed in a long process and came into force in its new form on January 1, 2023. The right to self-determination and autonomy of people with disabilities is strengthened once again by making the priority of their wishes the central benchmark. This article aims to contribute a clear framework and communication tools to facilitate supported decision-making practice. In this article, barriers to implementing supported decisionmaking practices are identified. In addition, suggestions are made on how to ensure high quality standards for internal communication and overcome the outdated adult guardianship’s substituted decision-making regime. Furthermore, a self-assessment tool is presented to reflect on whether supported decision-making (SDM) is performed.