From a concept to a theory: The six eras of quality of life research and application

Abstract

[EN] This article describes the evolution of the quality of life concept through the lens of six distinct eras. Each era reflects a shared process in which multiple stakeholders, including persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities and researchers, have played a significant role. Across these six eras, research on quality of life has evolved from operationalizing a concept to devel oping a theory. As described in the article, the first three eras resulted in formulating concep tualization, measurement, and application principles; developing quality of life conceptual and operational models; and constructing reliable and valid instruments to assess quality of life do mains or domain-referenced indicators. The application era has focused on applying the concept of quality of life and its measurement, supports provision, conceptualization and theory, and systemic change. The final two eras have involved theory development and theory confirmation.