Research Database: Article Details

Citation:  Carter, E. W., Bendetson, S., & Guiden, C. H. (2018). Family perspectives on the appeals of and alternatives to sheltered employment for individuals with severe disabilities. Research and Practice for Persons with Severe Disabilities, 43 (3), 145-164.
Title:  Family perspectives on the appeals of and alternatives to sheltered employment for individuals with severe disabilities
Authors:  Carter, E. W., Bendetson, S., & Guiden, C. H.
Year:  2018
Journal/Publication:  Research and Practice for Persons with Severe Disabilities
Publisher:  SAGE
DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1177/1540796918778293
Research summary:  https://projecte3.com/integrated-employment-family-views/
Full text:  https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1540796918778293    |   PDF   
Peer-reviewed?  Yes
NIDILRR-funded?  No

Structured abstract:

Background:  Although calls to expand integrated employment opportunities have permeated recent legislative and policy initiatives in the United States, substantial numbers of adults with severe disabilities still work in segregated settings. We examined findings from events held in eight communities to solicit the views of parents and other family members (n = 93) on the state’s shift from sheltered to integrated employment. Our interest was in understanding what maintained their attraction to segregated work settings and which factors would lead them to consider community employment as an appealing alternative. The considerations raised by participants were wide-ranging and highly individualized. However, factors related to ensuring safety, the availability of personal supports, and opportunities for relationship development were pronounced across these geographically and economically diverse communities. We offer implications for research and policy aimed at changing the employment landscape for individuals with severe disabilities.

Disabilities served:  Severe physical disability
Populations served:  Rural and remote communities
Transition-age youth (14 - 24)
Culturally diverse populations (e.g., African Americans, Native Americans, and non-English speaking populations)
Persons with multiple disabilities (e.g., deaf-blindness, HIV/AIDS, substance abuse)
SSI and SSDI recipients
Sub-minimum wage employees
Interventions:  Environmental modifications
Supported employment
Vocational rehabilitation
Long-term supports (Medicaid waivers, etc.)
Transition services
Outcomes:  Employment acquisition
Full-time employment