"Just Having a Job": Career Advancement for Low-Wage Workers With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. (May 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lindstrom, Lauren; Hirano, Kara A.; McCarthy, Colleen; Alverson, Charlotte Y.
• Other Names: Lindstrom Lauren guest-editor.
• Is Part Of: Career development and transition for exceptional individuals. Volume 37:Number 1(2014)
• Page Start: 40
• Page End: 49
• Publication Date: 2014-05
• Subjects: intellectual disabilities -- developmental disabilities -- employment -- career development -- poverty; Exceptional children -- Vocational education -- United States -- Periodicals; 371.95
• DOI: 10.1177/2165143414522092
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2165-1434

Abstract

This study examined career development and early employment experiences for four young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Researchers used a multiple-method, multiple case-study longitudinal design to explore career development within the context of family systems, high school and transition programs, adult services, and early and continued experiences in the labor market. Data sources included school and rehabilitation records, job observations, and interviews with young adults, family members, high school special education personnel, employers, and adult agency staff ( N = 39). During the early career years, participants maintained stable employment, but earned annual wages well under the federal poverty line. Employment opportunities seemed to be influenced by family advocacy and expectations, school-based work experiences, job development services, and work environments.