Independent report

Measuring inequality: autonomy - the degree of empowerment in decisions about one's own life

As part of the development of the Equality Measurement Framework, we commissioned research on “Measuring Inequality: Autonomy - The degree of…

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Measuring Inequality: Autonomy - The degree of empowerment in decisions about one's own life (PDF file - 1mb - Warning: large file)

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Summary of the report into Measuring Inequality: Autonomy (PDF file - 90kb)

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As part of the development of the Equality Measurement Framework, we commissioned research on “Measuring Inequality: Autonomy - The degree of empowerment in decisions about one’s own life”.

This research report develops survey questions to capture and measure individuals’ autonomy: the degree of choice and control they have in key areas of their lives. Review of the theoretical literature led to the identification of three components of autonomy: (i) self-reflection, (ii) active or delegated decision-making, and (iii) a wide variety of high-quality options.

The report develops a template of questions for the three components, which has been cognitively tested. This project found that, despite limitations, survey measurement of the complex concept of autonomy is possible and revealing.

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Date: Sat Jan 01 14:14:26 GMT 2011

Full document - Measuring Inequality: Autonomy - The degree of empowerment in decisions about one’s own life

Summary - Measuring Inequality: Autonomy - The degree of empowerment in decisions about one’s own life

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Published 1 January 2011

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