Workplace microaggressions experienced by adults with spinal cord injury

Work is central to people's lives, yet workplace microaggressions experienced by adults with spinal cord injury (SCI) remain underexplored. The goal of this qualitative study was to understand the workplace microaggressions experienced by adults with SCI using community-based participatory research and Sue's microaggressions framework as an initial guide.

Adults with SCI who had current or recent work experience were recruited through rehabilitation psychology networks and SCI communities to participate in focus groups (N = 61). A community-based participatory research team composed of seven individuals with SCI partnered with researchers to guide this study. Focus group transcripts were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

Participants described experiencing a range of microaggressions in the workplace, captured in four broad themes: (a) stereotyping and othering, (b) tokenized recognition, (c) demeaning interactions, and (d) barriers to professional growth. Participants reported that these experiences negatively impacted their quality of work life.

Findings highlight the urgent need for employers to prioritize disability education and structured supports such as self-advocacy training, peer mentorship, and inclusive practices. Engaging individuals with lived experience in the development of workplace policies and interventions can help rehabilitation professionals, employers, and policymakers advance equitable career opportunities and address the subtle biases that impact work life and outcomes for people with SCI. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).