Research Article

Article Details

Citation:  Carlson, S.R.; Morningstar, M.E.; & Munandar, V. (2020). Workplace supports for employees with intellectual disability: A systematic review of the intervention literature. Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, 52 (3), 251-265.
Title:  Workplace supports for employees with intellectual disability: A systematic review of the intervention literature
Authors:  Carlson, S.R.; Morningstar, M.E.; & Munandar, V.
Year:  2020
Journal/Publication:  Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation
Publisher:  IOS Press
DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3233/JVR-201075
Full text:  https://content.iospress.com/articles/journal-of-vocational-rehabil...   
Peer-reviewed?  Yes
NIDILRR-funded?  Yes

Structured abstract:

Background:  Competitive integrated employment often remains out of reach for people with intellectual disability. Consistently poor outcomes have resulted in research and policies promoting employment through the provision of workplace supports. Researchers have established a substantial body of intervention research addressing pre-employment supports. However, minimal intervention research exists addressing the provision of supports subsequent to job placement.
Purpose:  The objective of this study was to systematically examine the body of intervention research associated with workplace supports used to address career maintenance and career advancement for employees with intellectual disability.
Data collection and analysis:  A systematic literature review was conducted, examining intervention research published between 1984 and 2018. Fourteen studies met inclusion criteria. These studies included 85 employees with intellectual disability and 57 support providers (e.g., employment specialists, job coaches, co-workers).
Findings:  Results revealed evidence of interventions addressing career maintenance through the provision of training to both support providers and employees with intellectual disability. Training addressed workplace performance and social integration. No interventions were identified promoting career advancement.
Conclusions:  This paper offers an overview of the current intervention research base addressing workplace supports for employees with intellectual disability and makes recommendations for research, policy, and practice.

Disabilities served:  Cognitive / intellectual impairment
Developmental disabilities
Multiple disabilities
Interventions:  Accommodations
Job coach
Supported employment
Vocational rehabilitation
Outcomes:  Employment acquisition
Full-time employment
Part-time employment