Resource Center: Research Outline

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Individual and System Barriers for Job Seekers With Disabilities

Publication:  Career Development Quarterly (2010)

Article: Stuck in a Loop: Individual and System Barriers for Job Seekers With Disabilities

Author:  Hall, J.P., & Parker, K.

Research Area:
Qualitative research study designed to incorporate focus groups to explore how individuals with disabilities typically use vocational support programs implemented under the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF; Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996), and the Workforce Investment Act  of 1998 (WIA).

Research Summary:
The types of disabilities discussed include physical, cognitive, emotional, and medical.

The authors point out that “job seekers with disabilities face external obstacles to employment (e.g., physical limitations, gaps in employment due to illness, need for accommodations) that counselors can help them address.” 

Previous research has found that one reason why the unemployment rate is so high (63%) for this group, despite the presence of social support programs, is because these programs are not designed to meet the unique needs of individuals with disabilities. 

Similarly, counseling center employees often reported the need for more training, including additional resources designed to help them identify the skill and information gaps that hinder individuals with disabilities from finding a job.  

The implicit goal of TANF and WIA is long-term employability.  In order to accomplish this, the authors affirm that counselors should be coached with the understanding that individuals with disabilities tend to face additional challenges than some of their peers (e.g., lower self-esteem).

Increased awareness of these challenges, combined with training that is specifically designed to foster alternative service strategies will allow counselors to assist their clients and help them cope more effectively.   

Measures:
This study used a series of focus groups as well as qualitative reports submitted by "mystery" clients who were instructed to interact with vocational center employees and counselors.

Main Findings and Future Implications:

The final section of this article addresses the implications of this study for career counselors who work with adults.  Here the authors provide a few systematic and program-wide suggestions to improve the manner in which services are provided to those with disabilities, by addressing the unique challenges that face this disproportionately represented group of adults in programs such as TANF and WIA. 

Reference
     Hall, J.P., & Parker, K. (2010). Stuck in a Loop: Individual and System Barriers for Job Seekers With Disabilities. The Career Development Quarterly, 58, 246-256.