Affiliations: Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on
Workplace Supports and Job Retention, Virginia Commonwealth University, P.O.
Box 840221, Richmond, VA 23284-2011, USA
Abstract: Using the Integrated Mission System of the Equal Employment
Opportunity Commission, the employment discrimination experience of Americans
with mental retardation is documented. Researchers compare and contrast the key
dimensions of workplace discrimination involving Americans with mental
retardation and persons with other physical, sensory, and neurological
impairments. Specifically, the researchers examine demographic characteristics
of the CPs; the industry designation, location, and size of employers against
whom complaints are filed; the nature of discrimination (i.e., type of adverse
action) alleged to occur; and the legal outcome or Resolution of these
complaints. Chi-square analyses revealed that persons with mental retardation
were more likely to encounter discrimination involving matters of involuntary
termination (discharge), involuntary resignation (constructive discharge), and
harassment. They were less likely to encounter discrimination related to
reasonable accommodation, promotion, demotion, and reinstatement. Allegations
of employment discrimination by persons with mental retardation were more
likely to have merit in comparison to allegations by CPs with other
disabilities. Implications for policy and advocacy are addressed.
Keywords: Workplace discrimination, mental retardation, disability, Americans with Disabilities Act
