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Self-perceived equal opportunities for people with intellectual disability.
1Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong. rseriali@inet.polyu.edu.hk
Summary
Employment is crucial for individuals with intellectual disability, but experiences vary. Many face challenges due to workplace attitudes and potential discrimination, highlighting the need for better support and education.
Area of Science:
- Disability Studies
- Employment Studies
- Social Inclusion
Background:
- Growing awareness of disability rights but limited understanding of employment perceptions for individuals with intellectual disability.
- The importance of equal employment opportunities for social integration and personal fulfillment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the self-perceived employment opportunities for young working adults with mild intellectual disability.
- To understand the factors influencing their employment experiences.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative research approach.
- In-depth interviews with 18 young working adults with mild intellectual disability.
- Content analysis and constant comparative method for data analysis.
Main Results:
- Employment is highly valued by all participants.
- Most participants reported both positive and negative employment experiences, often linked to workplace relationships and employer/co-worker attitudes.
- A significant number of participants may have encountered discrimination due to misconceptions about intellectual disability.
Conclusions:
- Strategies including equal opportunities education, fostering natural workplace support, and public disability education are recommended.
- These interventions aim to promote full participation in employment and enhance social integration for people with intellectual disability.