Theory and practice of the development of civic consciousness and patriotism in adults with moderate intellectual disability

the evolving trajectory of national social policy – marked by a transition toward deinstitutionalization and the inclusive integration of individuals with disabilities, including those with intellectual and complex developmental impairments – necessitates a focused psychological inquiry into the development of individual personality structures. Within this framework, the cultivation of civic self-awareness in adults with moderate intellectual disabilities is conceptualized as an integral component of a broader, systematically organized process of personality development. This process is grounded in contemporary psychological theory concerning the structural organization of personality and the mechanisms underlying its formation. A developmental model of civic self-awareness was designed and empirically validated through a longitudinal study examining the dynamics of personality growth in adults with moderate intellectual disabilities. The study was conducted under controlled socio-psychological conditions specifically structured to support adaptive functioning and psychosocial engagement. The acquisition of civic self-awareness and the attainment of civic maturity are understood as sequential and hierarchical processes. These range from the emergence of socially oriented motivational patterns to the consolidation of civic identity and the manifestation of civic maturity, evidenced through autonomous decision-making, socially responsible behavior, and active civic participation. Findings from this research underscore the viability and necessity of fostering civic self-awareness in individuals with intellectual disabilities, provided that the developmental process is anchored in a robust methodological framework and adheres to established psychological principles. Such efforts are essential for facilitating their meaningful and sustainable inclusion in the sociocultural fabric of society. Furthermore, the development of civic self-awareness is not an isolated phenomenon but is embedded within the overarching paradigm of personality development in adults with moderate intellectual disabilities. It is inextricably linked to the broader psychosocial context and must be addressed as part of a comprehensive developmental strategy.

individual personality, civic self-awareness, civic identity, civic maturity, developmental model of civic self-awareness, social inclusion, intellectual disability