| Citation: |
Lindsay, S., Adams, T., Sanford, R., McDougall, C., Kingsnorth, S., & Menna-Dack, D. (2014). Employers' and employment counselors' perceptions of desirable skills for entry level positions for adolescents: how does it differ for youth with disabilities?.
Disability and Society, 29 953-967.
|
| Title: |
Employers' and employment counselors' perceptions of desirable skills for entry level positions for adolescents: how does it differ for youth with disabilities? |
| Authors: |
Lindsay, S., Adams, T., Sanford, R., McDougall, C., Kingsnorth, S., & Menna-Dack, D. |
| Year: |
2014 |
|
Journal/Publication:
|
Disability and Society |
| Publisher: |
Routledge |
| DOI: |
https://doi.org/10.1080/09687599.2013.874330
|
| Full text: |
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/09687599.2013.874330
|
| Peer-reviewed? |
Yes
|
| NIDILRR-funded? |
No
|
|
Research design:
|
Qualitative research
|
| Background: |
Youth with disabilities face high rates of unemployed as compared to their peers without disabilities. Research indicates employer are looking to hire employees with good soft skills. Information is needed about how employers perceive youth with disabilities. |
|
Purpose:
|
The purpose of this study was to learn about employers and employment counselors look for when hiring youth with disabilities into entry level jobs and whether or not they believe youth with disabilities have fewer skills than those without disabilities. |
|
Study sample: |
The sample included 10 employment counselors that provided support programs and services to youth with disabilities and 9 employers from various industries that employ youth. |
|
Control or comparison condition:
|
There was no control or comparison condition. |
|
Data collection and analysis:
|
Semi structured interviews were conducted by a research assistant. The interviews were audio recorded and transcribed. Researchers read the transcripts to identify key themes related to employment skills and differences perceived between youth with and without disabilities. A validation process was also used to verify codes and themes. |
|
Findings:
|
A well prepared job applicant, job fit, good attitude and soft skills were identified as traits that would enhance employability of youth. Employers perceive that youth with disabilities face more barriers and lack important experience, skills and confidence. |
|
Conclusions:
|
More research is needed to better understand the factors that shape youth employment and to find ways to overcome discrimination. |
