Work - Volume 48, issue 3

Article Type: Other

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-141908

Citation: Work, vol. 48, no. 3, pp. 297-298, 2014

Authors: Girma, Haben

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: When children with disabilities imagine joining the adult world of work, the joys of choosing a future career path are marred by the high unemployment rates. As I maneuvered through the world of work as a young adult, my optimism remained slightly dampened by an acute awareness that 70% of blind Americans are unemployed. In my experience, the ultimate strategy for success in securing meaningful employment involved a combination of an honest assessment of one's skills …and limits, and stubbornly searching for that niche position. Show more

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131786

Citation: Work, vol. 48, no. 3, pp. 299-301, 2014

Authors: Schwartz, Michael

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Michael Schwartz, a lawyer deaf since birth, describes his journey as a professional for the last 32 years since his graduation from NYU School of Law in 1981. He offers a case study of his experiences with accommodations on the job as required by federal and state law. The study includes specific examples of what worked and what did not work for a deaf lawyer like him working at his craft. Schwartz wraps up with the lessons he learned over the last three decades as we moved from the model of non-compliance to that of compliance, even beyond compliance, with …the mandates of law in the employment context. Show more

Keywords: Accessibility, accommodations, American Sign Language (ASL), appropriate auxiliary aids, civil rights law, computer-aided real-time transcription or communication access realtime translation (CART), disability rights law, essential functions of the job, interactive dialogue, sign language interpreters, technology, workplace life lessons

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131793

Citation: Work, vol. 48, no. 3, pp. 303-306, 2014

Authors: Oswal, Sushil K.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: After defining accessibility and usability, the author offers a broad survey of the research studies on digital content databases which have thus far primarily depended on data drawn from studies conducted by sighted researchers with non-disabled users employing screen readers and low vision devices. OBJECTIVE: This article aims at producing a detailed description of the difficulties confronted by blind screen reader users with online library databases which now hold most of the academic, …peer-reviewed journal and periodical content essential for research and teaching in higher education. METHODS: The approach taken here is borrowed from descriptive ethnography which allows the author to create a complete picture of the accessibility and usability problems faced by an experienced academic user of digital library databases and screen readers. RESULTS: The author provides a detailed analysis of the different aspects of accessibility issues in digital databases under several headers with a special focus on full-text PDF files. CONCLUSIONS: The author emphasizes that long-term studies with actual, blind screen reader users employing both qualitative and computerized research tools can yield meaningful data for the designers and developers to improve these databases to a level that they begin to provide an equal access to the blind. Show more

Keywords: Accessibility, aggregate databases, screen reader, blind

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131791

Citation: Work, vol. 48, no. 3, pp. 307-317, 2014

Authors: Lukyanova, Valentina V. | Balcazar, Fabricio E. | Oberoi, Ashmeet K. | Suarez-Balcazar, Yolanda

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: People with mental illness often experience major difficulties in finding and maintaining sustainable employment. African Americans with mental illness have additional challenges to secure a job, as reflected in their significantly lower employment rates compared to Whites. OBJECTIVE: To examine the factors that contribute to racial disparities in employment outcomes for African-American and White Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) consumers with mental illness. METHODS: This study used VR data from a Midwestern state that included 2,122 African American …and 4,284 White participants who reported mental illness in their VR records. Logistic regression analyses were conducted. RESULTS: African Americans had significantly more closures after referral and were closed as non-rehabilitated more often than Whites. Logistic regressions indicated that African Americans are less likely to be employed compared to Whites. The regression also found differences by gender (females more likely to find jobs than males) and age (middle age consumers [36 to 50] were more likely to find jobs than younger consumers [18 to 35]). Case expenditures between $1,000 and $4,999 were significantly lower for African Americans. CONCLUSIONS: VR agencies need to remain vigilant of potential discrepancies in service delivery among consumers from various ethnic groups and work hard to assure as much equality as possible. Show more

Keywords: Employment outcomes, vocational rehabilitation, mental illness, racial disparities

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131788

Citation: Work, vol. 48, no. 3, pp. 319-328, 2014

Authors: Saigal, Neha | Narayan, Rajeev

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: India, a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), has 2.21% of people with disabilities to the total population of which 26% are employed (Census 2011 and 2001). Accessibility was introduced for the first time in 1995 under The Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and Full Participation) Act. Article 9 of UNCRPD promotes barrier-free environment on an equal basis with others. Despite the legislation and …the UN convention, structural barriers continue to be one of the largest barriers posing concern for PwDs at their workplace. OBJECTIVE: To identify various physicall barriers limiting accessibility of PWDs in the formal sector in Delhi. METHOD: Quantitative descriptive research design. Random sample was drawn. RESULT: Structural barriers create difficulty in accessing basic amenities such as canteens, toilets etc. CONCLUSION: Disability is a human rights issue. An employee with disability is entitled to dignified life. Effective implementation of Article 9 and 27 of UNCRPD will pave a way for removing structural barriers at workplace. Show more

Keywords: Person with disabilities (PwDs), accessibility, reasonable accommodations, United Nations Convention on the Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), structural barriers

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-141910

Citation: Work, vol. 48, no. 3, pp. 329-337, 2014

Authors: Gray, David B. | Morgan, Kerri A. | Gottlieb, Meghan | Miller, Lindsey C. | Hollingsworth, Holly H.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Few studies of employed people who use wheelchairs, canes, crutches or walkers have been reported in the literature. One reason for this paucity of research reports is that surveys are most often made of unemployed individuals with disabilities a defined broadly. Understanding the work site of successfully employed people who use mobility devices requires the development of as survey that can be used to examine the important features of worksite from employees who use mobility …devices at their worksites. OBJECTIVE: This article describes the development and psychometrics of a survey on currently employed people with lower limb impairments and mobility limitations who use mobility devices. The items in the Mobility Device User Work Survey (MWS) were based on interviews and survey items pilot tested on employed mobility device users. PARTICIPANTS: A sample of 183 employed people who use mobility devices including wheelchairs, canes, crutches or walkers was recruited using internet postings on disability-related organizations. The average age of the sample was 46.3, most were college educated, 72% used wheelchairs and the average number of years of employment was 24. METHODS: The MWS was completed by 183 people who met the inclusion criteria. The survey was sent to these same people a second time and 132 of them returned the second survey. RESULTS: The MWS consists of 106 questions on demographic, work and worksite characteristics and 58 subjective evaluation items that were organized into five scales. The internal consistencies (Cronbach's alpha) of the five scales were moderate (0.72) to good (0.93). Stability values of the five scales were calculated using correlations between forms and ranged from 0.70 to 0.80. The evaluative scales were analyzed using exploratory factor analysis. CONCLUSIONS: The MWS provides a tool for studying the variables that influence employed people who use mobility devices. Future studies of unemployed people who use mobility devices may benefit from using the results of the MWS to plan interventions. Show more

Keywords: Employment, assessment, worksite, wheelchair, disability, psychometrics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131787

Citation: Work, vol. 48, no. 3, pp. 339-348, 2014

Authors: Gray, David B. | Morgan, Kerri A. | Gottlieb, Meghan | Hollingsworth, Holly H.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Nearly 25% of people with mobility impairments and limitations who are of working age are employed, yet few studies have examined their perspectives on their jobs or work environments required to complete job tasks. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to describe the factors that contribute to successful employment for those who use mobility devices. PARTICIPANTS: A convenience sample of 132 workers who use power wheelchairs, manual wheelchairs, canes, crutches …or walkers. METHOD: Participants completed an online version of the Mobility Device User Work Survey (MWS). A multivariate analysis and a two-step multiple linear regression analysis were used. RESULTS: Study participants had few secondary health conditions that influenced their work. Employee satisfactoriness to their employers was high. Accessibility of worksites was high. Assistive technologies were inexpensive, and personal assistance was used infrequently and usually was unpaid. Co-worker communications were very positive. Flexible work rules and supportive managers were highly valued. Job satisfaction positively correlated with accessibility, work tasks, co-worker communication and work support. CONCLUSION: The description of work environments of successfully employed mobility device users can provide some useful guidance to employers, vocational rehabilitation (VR) counselors and unemployed mobility device users to balance employee abilities and preferences with the needs of employers. Show more

Keywords: Successful employment, mobility device users, theory of work adjustment

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-141907

Citation: Work, vol. 48, no. 3, pp. 349-359, 2014

Authors: Miller, Lindsey C. | Gottlieb, Meghan | Morgan, Kerri A. | Gray, David B.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Less than 40% of people with disabilities work. Many studies have detailed the barriers to employment but few have examined the work experiences of those who are employed. OBJECTIVE: A description of work conditions valued by a specific segment of employed people with disabilities is provided. METHODS: Videotaped interviews of 33 successfully employed people with mobility impairments and limitations (PWMIL) were transcribed and analyzed to gather their perspectives on their work …social and physical environments. RESULTS: Finding work was facilitated by family, friends and other social networks, vocational services, and prior education. Doing volunteer work, spending time at a paid and unpaid internship, and part-time work experiences were important aspects of job acquisition. Exterior and interior physical features were or had been made accessible. Expensive assistive technologies were paid for by the employee and their health insurance. Almost all personal assistance was provided by family, friends and co-workers. Work satisfaction included having a supportive employer, supportive co-workers, and flexible worksite policies. CONCLUSION: The interviews of employed PWMIL provide prospective employers and employees information on important social and physical work features that are needed to improve the possibilities for hiring people with disabilities and facilitating their successful careers. Show more

Keywords: Employment success, interviews, worksite physical features, assistive technology, personal assistance, co-worker, supervisor

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131784

Citation: Work, vol. 48, no. 3, pp. 361-372, 2014

Authors: Sabatello, Maya

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This study considers the employment of persons with traumatic brain injury (TBI) from a disability-rights perspective. This approach calls for a shift from a focus on one's (in)capacity towards one's capability, incorporating both factors of impairment and of appropriate accommodation and supports to create inclusion. To give a voice to persons with TBI, the discussion is based on interviews with Tracey (pseudonym), a woman who incurred the injury at a young age and carried its implications …as she entered the workforce. It illustrates the discrimination and prejudice encountered by such individuals in procuring employment and gaining acceptance in workplaces and the accommodation-related challenges. The case study discusses the complexities involved as a way for developing a better understanding what must be considered, from a disability-rights perspective, regarding employment and workplace of persons with TBI. The 2006 Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) provides a legal reference for the discussion. Show more

Keywords: Traumatic brain injury, prejudice and discrimination, accommodation, vocational rehabilitation, Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131792

Citation: Work, vol. 48, no. 3, pp. 373-379, 2014

Authors: Araten-Bergman, Tal | Stein, Michael Ashley

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Employment, social capital, and community participation have emerged in recent years as significant concepts for realizing the human rights of individuals with disabilities. Yet the theoretical interrelationship of these concepts remains largely overlooked, as does the empirical basis for understanding the underlying connections. OBJECTIVES: This study explores the relationship between employment status, social capital, community participation, and well-being among Israelis with disabilities. It also explores the unique contribution of social capital …to the well-being and integration of individuals with disabilities. METHOD: 274 participants with self-reported disabilities completed a questionnaire containing measures of individual social capital, community participation, well-being, and background data. Correlation and Univariate analysis were used to compare scores between employed (n=131) and non-employed (n=143) participants, and logistic regression analysis was conducted to test the unique contribution of employment to social inclusion and well-being. RESULTS: Employed participants reported significantly higher levels of social capital and were more integrated in leisure and civic activities than their non-employed counterparts. Moreover, employment status was found to have a significant contribution to the variance in the subjective well-being of participants. CONCLUSIONS: By more fully understanding the importance of social capital for community inclusion, practitioners can better address the importance of network-building during the rehabilitation process as a means of promoting social and vocational integration. Show more

Keywords: Community integration, labor force participation, bonding capital, bridging capital

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131779

Citation: Work, vol. 48, no. 3, pp. 381-390, 2014

Authors: McCluskey, Serena | Brooks, Joanna | King, Nigel | Burton, Kim

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Treatment expectations form a fundamental component of the self-regulatory model of health behavior, which defines such cognitions as illness perceptions. Unrealistic and/or unhelpful treatment expectations have been linked to detrimental clinical and work outcomes in those with persistent low back pain. However, research of this nature has rarely focused on the influence of 'significant others' (spouse/partner/close family member). OBJECTIVE: To provide an in-depth examination of the treatment expectations of the 'significant others' of …individuals who have become unable to work due to persistent low back pain, highlighting how significant others may influence recovery and work participation outcomes for such individuals. PARTICIPANTS: A convenience sample (n=18) of work disability benefit claimants and their significant others were recruited from two settings in the North of England. METHOD: A qualitative research design was employed, and semi-structured interviews based on the chronic pain version of the Illness Perceptions Questionnaire-Revised were conducted with claimants and their significant others. Interview data were analysed using template analysis. RESULTS: It was found that significant others expected a substantial reduction or complete removal of pain in order for treatment to be considered successful. The pursuit of diagnostic tests was important in validating such expectations, and there was continued scepticism of treatments already undertaken or offered as an alternative. Like the individuals affected, significant others believed that a correct diagnosis had not yet been received, which led to a continued delay in return to work. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that significant others have similar unrealistic and/or unhelpful treatment expectations to those widely reported by individuals with persistent low back pain, and could further reinforce such illness perceptions and serve as wider psychosocial obstacles to recovery and continued work participation. Show more

Keywords: Back pain, illness perceptions, significant others, work disability

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131789

Citation: Work, vol. 48, no. 3, pp. 391-398, 2014

Authors: Bellman, Scott | Burgstahler, Sheryl | Ladner, Richard

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This case study describes evidence-based practices employed by a collection of University of Washington projects that engage high school and postsecondary students with disabilities in work-based learning experiences such as industry and research internships, career development activities, job shadows, field trips, and mock interviews. The purpose of the article is two-fold. First, authors share best practices with others who wish to increase the participation of students with disabilities in work-based learning and …thereby contribute to their academic and career success. The article discusses methods used to recruit students, employers and mentors, match students with specific opportunities, and prepare students for success. Second, authors share outcomes from studies regarding participation in these work-based learning opportunities, which include increased employment success, motivation to work toward a career, knowledge about careers and the workplace, job-related skills, ability to work with supervisors and coworkers, skills in self-advocating for accommodations, and perceived career options. Show more

Keywords: Disability, careers, internships, self-advocacy, accommodations, work-based learning

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131780

Citation: Work, vol. 48, no. 3, pp. 399-405, 2014

Authors: Gragoudas, Stelios

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: It seems as if youth with disabilities are not graduation high school with the skills that they need to secure employment once they graduate. Particular, they are not graduating with self-determination skills. Instruction in self-determination skills enable youth to be leaders in their own lives and make decisions that will shape their future. This is especially true as they are transitioning from school to the workforce. Youth with disabilities must have a clear understanding of …their abilities and be able to identify and request, and advocate for reasonable accommodations in the workplace. In addition, they must be prepared to negotiate how the accommodations are going to be presented within the work setting. OBJECTIVE: To present an overview of the literature that will demonstrate that self-determination skills are essential to youth with disabilities finding and securing employment. METHOD: An Eric and psycinfo Internet search was performed to gather articles and books concerning self-determination. RESULTS: The results section includes a number of strategies that teachers and practitioners can use directly with their students and their clients. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, by incorporating self-determination skills training into the curriculum for transition-aged youth with disabilities they will be prepared to enter and succeed inthe labor force. Show more

Keywords: Student involvement, empowerment, employment

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131782

Citation: Work, vol. 48, no. 3, pp. 407-411, 2014

Authors: Nochajski, Susan M. | Schweitzer, Jo A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The successful transition of students from high school to adult occupations, including work and independent living, has been a major focus of the educational reform movement in the United States. However, despite good intentions, students with disabilities have less favorable transition outcomes than do students in the general population and employment opportunities are even less promising for students with emotional/behavioral disorders (EBD). Objective: The purpose of this model demonstration project, funded …by the US Department of Education, was to develop a program based on identified best practices to facilitate successful school to work transition for students with EBD. PARTICIPANTS: 47 students with EBD between the ages of 14 and 19 were participants in this project. The majority of participants in the project were white males with a generic diagnosis of a disruptive personality disorder. METHODS: Five cohort groups of students participated in a four phase program; Phase 1 – School-based Learning, Phase 2 – Community Involvement, Phase 3 – Paid, Supported Work Experience, and Phase 4 – Competitive Employment and Follow-Up. RESULTS: At the conclusion of the project, 30% of the project participants were competitively employed. Students had the most difficulty in Phase 3, but 81% of those who successfully completed Phase 3 obtained and retained competitive employment for a least one year. Four case studies are presented to illustrate findings. CONCLUSIONS: The School to Work Transition Program model shows promise for providing interventions to promote successful transition for students with EBD. Further research on the effectiveness of the overall model, as well as specific components of the model, is needed. Show more

Keywords: Employment, post-secondary outcomes, students with disabilities, occupation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131790

Citation: Work, vol. 48, no. 3, pp. 413-422, 2014

Authors: Kalef, Laura | Barrera, Magda | Heymann, Jody

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Despite significant gains in legal rights for people with disabilities, the employment rate for individuals with disabilities in many countries remains extremely low. Programs to promote the inclusion of people with disabilities in the workforce can have an important impact on individuals' economic and social prospects, as well as societal benefits. OBJECTIVE: This article aims to explore Telenor Open Mind, a job training program at Norway's largest telecommunications company with financial support from …Norway's Labor and Welfare Organization (NAV), which acts as a springboard for individuals with disabilities into the workplace. METHODS: A qualitative case study design was utilized to explore the Telenor Open Mind Program. Drawing on field research conducted in Oslo during 2011, this article explores subjective experiences of individuals involved with the program, through interviews and program observations. RESULTS: Telenor Open Mind's two-year program is comprised of a three month training period, in which individuals participate in computer and self-development courses followed by a 21-month paid internship where participants gain hands-on experience. The program has an average 75% rate of employment upon completion and a high rate of participant satisfaction. Participation in the program led to increased self-confidence and social development. The company experienced benefits from greater workplace satisfaction and reductions in sick leave rates. CONCLUSIONS: The Telenor Open Mind program has provided benefits for participants, the company, and society as a whole. Participants gain training, work experience, and increased employability. Telenor gains dedicated and trained employees, in addition to reducing sick leave absences among all employees. Finally, society benefits from the Open Mind program as the individuals who gain employment become tax-payers, and no longer need to receive benefits from the government. Show more

Keywords: Disability, work, inclusion, equity, public-private partnership

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131783

Citation: Work, vol. 48, no. 3, pp. 423-434, 2014

Authors: Hallden, Jennifer

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: A state's legislation dictates the expectations in the handling of work-related injuries. However, the reality is that positive outcomes depend more on a company's value system, such as whether an organization views its employees as assets rather than liabilities, than on legal protections. This article reviews the workers' compensation system in the United States and the false assumptions that create barriers to effective and timely resolution of claims. The United States workers' compensation system is a …very reactive process. Professionals in the workers' compensation field who work with employers, medical providers, and insurance companies regularly encounter deeply ingrained assumptions that create unnecessary barriers to injured workers' opportunities to participate in transitional work and modified duty while recovering from a work-related injury. Regardless of the size or type of the employer, the jurisdiction where the injury occurred, or the type of claim management organization, these perceptions continue to permeate the industry. This article addresses these assumptions and offers suggestions for a more proactive approach to achieve quicker and more successful outcomes. Show more

Keywords: Barriers, assumptions, modified duty, proactive, teamwork, workers' compensation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-141909

Citation: Work, vol. 48, no. 3, pp. 435-439, 2014

Authors: Brown, Pat | Johnson, Kurt

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Disability prevalence in older adults is increasing. Given the low rates of employment among people with disabilities, especially those aging with multiple sclerosis (MS), spinal cord injury (SCI), late effects of polio (LEP), and muscular dystrophy (MD), services from federal-state vocational rehabilitation (VR) programs could positively impact employment status. OBJECTIVE: To describe VR services for individuals aging with MS, SCI, LEP and MD and the impact of aging on employment status. PARTICIPANTS: …Thirteen Washington State VR counselors and 26 individuals, 45 to 65 years old, with MS, MD, LEP or SCI. METHODS: We examined national Rehabilitation Services Administration data (2006, 2007), including case closure, service outcomes and other demographics. We then purposively selected Washington State for our study. Interviews provided consumer and counselor perspectives on the components of successful case closure (employed) and the impact of aging and disability on employment. RESULTS: Washington State and national data were similar. Organizational and individual factors influence the effectiveness of VR services. CONCLUSION: People who could benefit from VR services are not being served; those who are served, are getting neither comprehensive services nor high quality outcomes. Additional research is needed to understand the variables associated with effective use of VR services. Show more

Keywords: Employment, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, late effects of polio

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131781

Citation: Work, vol. 48, no. 3, pp. 441-451, 2014

Authors: Benshoff, Laura | Barrera, Magda | Heymann, Jody

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: In India, the low rate of employment of people with disabilities is a large problem in the growing economy. Looking at one advocacy group's strategies for influencing the private sector and lobbying the Indian government for more responsive employment policies, this article focuses on NCPEDP's holistic approach to increasing employment of people with disabilities as an example of notable, innovative practice. The article examines NCPEDP's strategies towards the private sector, public policy, and civil society, …including its Disability Awards (highlighting inclusive workplaces), the 2001 and 2011 Census campaigns' efforts for people with disabilities to become accurately counted, and its networks of disability organizations that disseminate relevant information and campaign for greater equality across the nation. The benefits and limitations of these strategies are then assessed for lessons regarding the strategies available to small nongovernmental organizations seeking to influence employment, the private sector and public policy in other settings. Show more

Keywords: Rights-based advocacy, employment, national policy, India

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131785

Citation: Work, vol. 48, no. 3, pp. 453-464, 2014