Comparing Perspectives Between Different Agency Structures and Support Models.

The roles and responsibilities of direct support professionals (DSPs) are evolving. This qualitative study explores how DSPs perceive their role and explores those perceptions across DSPs working in traditional, intermediate, and innovative agencies, as defined for the study. Examining 440 DSP survey responses and interviews with 24 DSPs, we found that DSPs working in more individualized settings tended to have expanded role functions (focused on promoting self-determination and community engagement). DSPs working in more traditional settings tended to have more care-focused role functions (concentrated on activities of daily living, medication administration, and health and safety). The role perception of DSPs at intermediate agencies and role conflict due to competing responsibilities demonstrate a need to systemically transform future service delivery.

Direct Support Professionals' Perspectives on Workplace Support: Underappreciated, Overworked, Stressed Out, and Stretched Thin.

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) workforce has experienced a multidecade period of disinvestment in the field leading to DSPs being in high demand, while efforts to recruit, train, and retain these professionals pose challenges. To gain a better understanding of the needs of DSPs themselves, 440 survey responses and 24 interviews of DSPs were analyzed to understand what would help DSPs do their jobs better and ensure they feel more supported by their agencies. Results revealed six distinct support needs: (a) ensure quality participatory management practices, (b) provide fair compensation and recognition, (c) enhance access to training opportunities, (d) assure reliable and quality staffing, (e) adequately fund basic needs of both programs and people receiving support, and (f) maintain reasonable job expectations.