Affiliations: Department of Rehabilitation Counseling, Virginia
Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA | Dean of Online Education, Herzig College, Milwaukee,
WI, USA
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Brian T. McMahon, Ph. D., Department
of Rehabilitation Counseling, Virginia Commonwealth University, P. O. Box
980330, Richmond, VA 23298-0330, USA. Tel.: +1 804 827 0917; Fax: +1 804 828
1321; E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract: Using the Integrated Mission System of the Equal Employment
Opportunity Commission, the employment discrimination experience of Americans
with diabetes is documented. Researchers compare and contrast the key
dimensions of workplace discrimination involving Americans with diabetes and
persons with other physical, sensory, and neurological impairments.
Specifically, the researchers examine demographic characteristics of the
charging parties; 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. Findings indicate that persons with diabetes were more likely to
encounter discrimination involving discharge, constructive discharge,
discipline and suspension – all job retention issues. Persons with diabetes
were less likely to encounter discrimination involving hiring, reasonable
accommodation, non-pension benefits, and layoff. They were also more likely to
encounter discrimination when they were older or from specific ethnic
backgrounds, or when they worked for small employers or in the Southern United
States. Implications for policy and advocacy are addressed.
