Einstaklingsbundið

Einstaklingsbundið is an Icelandic adjective used to describe approaches, services, or outcomes that are tailored to the individual. It denotes a focus on a single person’s unique needs, preferences, and circumstances, rather than applying standard, one-size-fits-all solutions. In Icelandic public and professional discourse the term appears in contexts such as education, health care, and social services, where policies or practices emphasize person-centered planning and individualized support.

The word combines einstaklingur (individual) with bundinn (bound or tied), functioning as an inflected compound adjective. It is related to expressions like einstaklingsbundin nálgun (individual-focused approach) and einstaklingsbundið nám (individually tailored instruction).

While the exact meaning can vary by domain, einstaklingsbundið generally implies assessment and intervention based on an in-depth understanding of the person. It supports autonomy, informed choice, and the adaptation of services to changing needs, with an emphasis on customization rather than generic provision.

Related terms and concepts include person-centered care, individualized education programs, and client-centered approaches. The term is used across sectors to signal a commitment to addressing the specific characteristics, goals, and circumstances of each person. It is commonly encountered in Icelandic policy documents, professional guidelines, and educational and welfare literature.