Adults with learning disabilities: occupational and social status after college

Forty-nine adults with learning disabilities who had attended a large public university between 1980 and 1992 were interviewed about their current employment and social status. Most of the respondents had adjusted well to the demands and complexities of adulthood. More than 80% of the participants not still in college at the time of the interview were employed, mostly in white collar jobs. Although most of the participants indicated that their learning disabilities affected them at work or in other facets of their life, they typically did not disclose those disabilities when applying for jobs or once employed. The respondents were also socially active and happy with their social life. Keys and barriers to success are examined, and recommendations are made concerning the issue of discrimination in the workplace.