Enriching Social Networks of the Intellectually Disabled

In this video I emphasize the importance for neurodivergent individuals of creating positive and ”rich” social networks (which consists of all the relationships we have with friends, family, teachers, therapists, counselors, and others). Once we understand our network (and we can draw a ”sociogram” to give us a picture of it) we can ”tweak” so that it is more soul-sustaining and less spirit-depleting. Some of the suggestions I give in this video for people with intellectual disabilities include: self-advocacy organizations, social media platforms designed for neurodivergent people, mentor relationships (e.g. Best Buddies), job coaches, positive community living settings, and anti-bullying programs (a bully can put a wrench into a social network and make for painful living experiences).