RehabWire - Volume 5, Number 9, October 2003.

October is National Disability Emploment Awareness Month, as declared by President Bush on October 3rd. This issue of RehabWire highlights the research activities of those projects focusing on employment issues. It looks at the myriad of research documents published in 2003 on this topic.

NIDRR Projects: Research in the New Millennium.

Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Improving Vocational Rehabilitation Services for Individuals Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing, University of Arkansas/Little Rock (H133B010501) led by Douglas Watson, PhD. Richard Johnson, EdD, Project Officer.
Abstract: This program conducts coordinated research and training to enhance the rehabilitation outcomes of persons who are deaf or hard of hearing who are served by VR and related employment programs. The ultimate goal of these efforts is to improve the capacity of the VR system and related programs to address the career preparation, entry, maintenance, and advancement, as well as the community living needs, of the target population.
Find out more at: www.uark.edu/deafrtc

Ideas for the New Millenium, World Institute on Disability (H133A990006) led by Kathy Martinez. Eva M. Gavillán, EdD, Project Officer.
Abstract: The ideas for the new millennium project creates a productive international exchange of information and expertise on disability and rehabilitation, connecting disability research and advocacy leadership in ten target countries with their peers in the United States. The issues critical to the information exchanges are: (1) disability rights and independent living, (2) employment and entrepeneurial activity, (3) access and technology, (4) mass media images, and (5) influence through governance.
Find out more at: www.wid.org or www.disabilityworld.org

Virtual Interview Exercises for Workplace Success (VIEWS), Vcom3D, Inc. (ED-01-Q-0003 (3-7)) led by Daniel Roush.
Abstract: This project conducts research to develop a protoype computer software program that provides the opportunity for job seekers who are deaf or hard-of-hearing to practice employment interviewing skills. The software presents an accessible virtual interview scenario with interacting characters and the ability to respond to interview questions that are asked frequently.
Find out more at: www.cvom3d.com

Comparison of Two Employment Models for Consumers with Severe Mental Illness, The Thresholds (H133G990155) led by Taff (M.L.) McCoy, PhD.
Abstract: This study compares the effectiveness of two important, popular employment models for people with Severe Mental Illness (SMI). The Diversified Placement Approach (DPA) offers a gradual stepwise preparation for competitive employment, including prevocational training, agency-run business opportunities, group placements, individual placements, and ultimately movement into independent employment, all available on a flexible, individualized basis without fixed time limits. The second model is a supported employment model developed in New Hampshire, known as Individual Placement and Support (IPS). As a consumer-oriented approach, key features of the IPS model include individualized planning with careful attention to  consumer preferences in the job matching process, close coordination between rehabilitation and treatment, and rapid job search.

I.T. Works, University of Iowa (H133A011803) led by Peter D. Blanck, PhD, JD. Richard E. Wilson II, EdD, Project Officer.
Abstract: The goal of the I.T. Works project is to identify barriers to and facilitators of the hiring, retention, advancement, and wages of individuals with disabilities. Research activities of this project include a theoretical model in which predictive measures include environmental factos, organizational factors, attitudinal factors, and individual characteristics. Outcome measures in the model include hiring rate, advancement rate, retention rate, and wages of individuals with disabilities. Training activities allow for the distribution of the research findings to diverse target audiences, including employers, IT trainers and professionals, persons with disabilities in diverse employment settings, other researchers, and relevant policy-makers.
Find out more at: http://disability.law.uiowa.edu/.

Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Workforce Investment and Employment Policy for Persons with Disabilities, University of Iowa College of Law (H133B010102) led by Michael Morris, Peter Blanck, Michael Collins, and Robert Silverstein. Delores Watkins, Project Officer.
Abstract: This Center helps expand, improve, and modify disability policy and other more general policies in order to improve the employment status of Americans with disabilities and increase their independence and self-sufficiency. Based on research from this project and other NIDRR-funded projects, this project establishes an information and technical assistance resource to government leaders and decision makers at state and federal levels, individuals with disabilities, parents and family members, and other interested parties, offering new and revised approaches to workforce development and employment policy.
Find out more at: www.its.uiowa.edu/law/lhpdc/rrtc/index.html.

Emergent Disability, Systems Change, and Emploment of People with Disabilities, University of Massachusetts (H133A021503) led by Susan Foley, PhD and Doris Hamner, PhD. David W. Keer, Project Officer.
Abstract:This project examines state service systems to document the impact of federal policies and practices on systems change and how such changes affect people with disabilities. Research activities include: (1) analysis of national, state, and local data collection systems and actual employment outcomes for people with disabilities; (2) documentation of data sets being used by state agenices to measure effectiveness and how these could be used to examine outcomes for people with disabilities; and (3) examination of how people with disabilities fare within the existing system and challenges they may face through direct consumer research.
Find out more at: www.communityinclusion.org.

An exploratory Study of the Factors Determining the Vocational Recovery of People with Psychiatric Disabilities, Boston University (H133G010113) led by Zlatka Russinova, PhD. Bonnie Gracer, Project Officer.
Abstract: This project studies factors that determine the vocational recovery of persons with psychiatric disabilities. The project seeks to explore the major factors that promote vocational recovery from serious mental illness based on the experiences of individuals who made the transition from severe work dysfunction, measured through the receipt of Social Security Income (SSI/SSDI), to full-time or part-time sustained competitive employment.
Find out more at: www.bu.edu/SARPSYCH

Job Retention Factors for Homeless People with Significant Disabilities, Sargent College (H133G020092) led by Norman Husch, ScD, Richard E. Wilson II, EdD, Project Officer.
Abstract:This project studies the major factors that promote or limit job retention and sustained employment for approximately 200 homeless individuals with significant disabilities who have successfully transitioned from unemployment to competitive employment and permanent housing. The goals of this project are: (1) to study the relationship between successful job retention and the individual characteristics and coping strategies of homeless people with significant disabilities; (2) to study the relationship between succeesful job retention and different workplace supports, program services, and homelss resources used by homeless people with disabilities; (3) to study how specific individual characteristics, and different workplace and program supports and resources, interact to influence job retention and sustained employment; and (4) to disseminate results of the study to employment and vocational rehabilitation programs, homeless resources, workforce development programs, advocacy groups, and insterested stakeholders.

Working It Out Together: Women with Disabilities and Employment, University of Massachusetts, Boston (H133A010106) led by Susan Foley, PhD. Bonnie Gracer, Project Officer.
Abstract: This project explores how to improve the economic status of working women with disabilities. Research examines workplace supports, including income supports, public services, and employment outcomes, that have been the most beneficial, what obstacles remain, and how peer support and mentoring fit into the basket of supports. The project also develops mentorship and peer support strategies that can be used in the future by women with disabilities, service providers, and researchers.
Find out more at: www.communityinclusion.org.

Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Ergonomic Solutions for Employment, University of Michigan (H133E980007) led by Thomas J. Armstrong, PhD. William Peterson, Project Officer.
Abstract: This RERC combines ergonomic interventions, work and worksite modifications, assistive technologies, and medical interventions to facilitate placement of workers with disabilities, and helps prevent development of subsequent musculoskeletal illnesses and injuries.
Find out more at: http://umrerc.engin.umich.edu.

Preparing Avenues for Competitive Employment in Information Technology (PACE-IT) Project, University of Missouri/Columbia (H133A011802) led by Greg Holliday, PhD. Delores Watkins, Project Officer.
Abstract: Preparing Avenues for Competitive Employment in Information Technology (PACE-IT) develops a comprehensive, person-centered system that assists local students with disabilities in their transition to professional employment in IT-related careers following graduation. The project ensures that students with disabilities at the University of Missouri-Columbia engage in experiential opportunities  in IT-related work settings with appropriate support. Participants also receive individualized accommodations, elecctronic portfolios, and professional mentoring in their chosen fields to enable them to be competitive int he IT job market upon graduation.
Find out more at: http://paceit.missouri.edu

Measuring Employer Opennes to Hiring People with Disabilities: Development of Expanded Labor Market Survey, Syracuse University (H133G000028) led by Dennis Gilbride, PhD. Joyce Y.Caldwell, Project Officer.
Abstract: This project works to understand the labor market in regards to people with disabilities. The first goal is to identify the key factors that distinguish employers that are authentically open to people with disabilities throughout the human resource management process, including recruitment, selection, training, supervision, accommodation, and promotion. The second goal is to develop a simple interview protocol (and supportive training materials) that rehabilitation consumers and counselors canuse as part of an enhanced labor market survey to target employers for placement, employer development, and consulting efforts based upon that employer's level of openness.
Find out more at: http://soeweb.syr.edu/faculty/ddqlibri/nidrr.

Strategies People with Psychiatric Disabilities Use to Maintain Employment and Build Careers, CESSI (H133G020116) led by Mary Killeen. Bonnie Gracer, Project Officer.
Abstract: This project investigates the strategies individuals with psychiatric disabilities use to maintain employment over time. This project explores a number of domains, including: (1) coping with stigma in the workplace, (2) managing symptoms as well as medications and their side effects, (3) making decisions regarding disclosure of psychiatric disability in the workplace, (4) negotiating workplace accommodations, (5) developing a social support network, (6) coping with relapse or rehospitalization with regard to employment, and (7) obtaining education or training (career development). In addition, the project examines whether those who have found work with the help of professionals and those who have found work independently use differing strategies to maintain employment.
Find out more at: www.cessi.net

Check out these other fine resources:

• http://janweb.icdi.wvu.edu/sbses - Small Business and Self Employment Service of the Job Accommodation Network
• http://worksupport.com - information, resources, and research about disability employment
• http://diversityworld.com - a resource for building a more diverse workplace

New Research: Selections from REHABDATA

Finch, J., Robinson, M. (2003) Aging and late-onset disability: Addressing workplace accommodation. Journal of Rehabilitation, 69(2), 38-42. Accession Number: J45261.
Abstract: Article identifies key issues affecting adults with late-onset disabilities and offers suggestions to rehabilitation counselors for facilitating maximum adjustment to employment. Discusses the occurrence of a disability after age 55 and implications regarding psychosocial adjustment, employment, vocational assessments, workplace accommodation and technology, and job placement. Case studies illustrate the challenges of working with older people with late-onset disability.

Gerber, P.J., Price, L.A. (2003) Persons with learning disabilities in the workplace: What we know so far in the Americans with Disabilities Act era. Learning Disability Research and Practice, 18(2). Accession Number: J45290.
Abstract: Article summarizes findings related to the workplace experiences of people with learning disabilities and their employers since the implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Describes employers' perspectives on awareness and knowledge, productivity, training, self-advocacy and reasonable accommodations. Describes the employees with learning disabilities' perspective on advocacy, disclosure, self-knowledge, and reasonable accommodations.

Wilson, A. (2003). Real jobs, learning difficulties, and supported employment. Disability & Society, 18(2), 99-115. Accession Number: J45395.
Abstract: Three case studies illustrate the effects of providing supported employment services to people with learning disabilities. The intent is to explore the extent to which supporting individuals in 'real' or 'normal' jobs facilitates their success in the workplace.

Paul, H., Hunt, R.D., Brodwin, M.G. (2003) Unemployment and underemployment of people with disabilities. The Rehabilitation Professional, 11(1), 56-60. Accession Number: J45095.
Abstract: Article discusses the various roles of private sector rehabilitation professionals in helping to reduce unemployment and underemployment for people with disabilities. Private sector rehabilitation specialization includes disability insurance rehabilitation, forensic rehabilitation, life care planning, disability management, consultation to business and industry, and substance abuse counseling services.

Wehman, P., Kregel, J., Keyser-Marcus, L., Sherron-Targett, P., Campbell, L., West, M., Cifu, D.X. (2003) Supported employment for persons with traumatic brain injury: A preliminary investigation of long-term follow-up costs and program efficiency. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 84(2), 192-196. Accession Number: J45023.
Abstract: Study investigatges the long-term follow-up costs supported employment as well as the wage and employment characteristics of 59 individuals with moderate to severe traumativ brain injury (TBI) who were placed in at least 1 supported employment position during the 14-year study period. Analyses were conducted to determine the costs of supported employment, employment characteristics, and cost-benefit ratios. The average length of employment was 42.58 months. Average gross earning were $26,129.74. Billing charges for employment services average $10,349.37. Individuals with TBI earned an average of $17,515 more than the costs associated with their supported employment.

Blackwell, T.L., Leierer, S.J., Haupt, S., Kampitsis, A. (2003) Predictos of vocational rehabilitation return-to-work outcomes in workers' compensation. Rehabilitation Counseling Bulletin, 46(2), 108-114. Accession Number: J44904.
Abstract: The postinjury return-to-work status of 502 workers referred for vocational rehabilitation services between 1984 and 1991 in Montana was examined to identify predictos of return to work (RTW) outcomes after injury. Predictor variables included age, education, attorney involvement, mandated vocational rehabilitation, and time from injury to referral. The number of years of education was found to be a strong predictor of postinjury RTW outcomes. Age, attorney involvement, mandated VR, and timely provision of services were also found to be significant predictors.

The theme of NDDEAM 2003 is America Works Best When All Americans Work

Frank, J.J. (2003) The impact of the Americans with Disabilites Act (ADA) on the employment of individuals who are blind or have severe visual impairments: Part 1: Elements of the ADA accommodation request process. Accession Number: O14680.
Abstract: Reports findings from the study that evaluated the request for accommodation process provided under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by people who are blind or have severe visual impairments. Interviews were conducted with people with disabilities, rehabilitation professionals, and recruiters. Interviews were conducted with people with disabilties, and recruiters for large national employers. Results indicated that major areas of concern with the ADA accommodation process are: resistance by employers, refusals to discuss or provide accommodation, the failure of the enforcement process, technical difficulties with assistive technology, and the lack of knowledge about the process.

Hagner, D. (2003) What we know about preventing and managing coworker resentment or rejection. Journal of Applied Rehabilitation Counseling, 34(1), 25-30. Accession Number: J45335.
Abstract: Article reviews existing literature relating to the extent of and reasons for coworker rejection and resentment of individuals with disabilities. Suggestions for preventing or dealing with negative coworker attitudes are presented. Rehabilitation counseling interventions include those directed toward employees with disabilities and toward the employers.

Growick, B. (2003). The U.S. Department of Labor: Opens new office for individuals with disabilities: Hopes to be user friendly and useful. The Rehabilitation Professional, 11(2), 24-24. Accession Number: J45340.
Abstract: Announces the opening of the Office of Disability Employment Policy, a new office created specifically to address the employment needs of people with disabilities. Responsibilities include policy analysis, technical assistance, and development of best practices, as well as outreach, education, and constituent services. One of the first acts of this new office was to create the Employer Assistance Referral Network (EARN), a system for employersto assist rehabilitation professionals with job openings. Benefits and contact information for the EARN services are included.

Eds. (2003). Job Hunting tips for your clients. The Rehabilitation Professionals, 11(2), 37. Accesssion Number: J45341
Abstract: Provides tips for vocational rehabilitation professionals on ways to help their clients find a full time job.

Wadsworth, J.S., McBrien, D.M., Harper, D.C. (2003) Vocational guidance and employment of persons with a diagnosis of Prader-Willi syndrome. Journal of Rehabilitation, 69(1), 15-21. Accession Number: J45129.
Abstract: Article provides an evaluation of a group employment-counseling program designed to help people living with HIV/AIDS. The discussion includes a basic outline of the program, information from a focus group comprised of program participants, and analysis of pretest and posttest data on client outcomes. Suggestions are made for program modifications and for future research.

Glenn, M.K., Ford, J., Moore, D., Hollar, D. (2003) Employment issues as related by individuals living with HIV or AIDS. Journal of Rehabilitation, 69(1), 30-36. Accession Number: J45131.
Abstract: Paper outlines issues that are confronting individuals living with HIV or AIDS as they consider returning to work. Surveys and interviews were conducted with peole living with HIV or AIDS to provide rehabilitation counselors with a better understanding of the issues face in today's environment. Themes identified from the data include: changes in job status since diagnosis, reasons for not working, experiences when looking for employment, job search strategies, experience disclosing HIV status to employers, identified barriers, and recommended job accommodations.

Eds. (2003) The workforce investment act: What is it and why should a person with hearing loss know about it? Hearing Loss, 24(2), 22-23. Accession Number: J45180.
Abstract: Demonstrates actual uses of assistive technology (AT) and accommodations in production occupations using a 3-part format. Part 1 presents background information on the individual, the employer, the accommodations needed, and otehr related information. Part 2 summarizes the activities and outcomes of the accommodation process. Part 3 provides optional follow-up discussion points and suggestions to focus on specific training objectives. Videotape presents 2 case studies to illustrate: (1) accommodations made for a TV/VCR repairman and small business owner who is a quadriplegic, and (2) strategies used by a picture frame restorer with a form of arthritis that causes  spinal and headaches.

Arnold, N., Ipsen, C. (2003) State self-employment policies: A decade of change: Final report. Accession Number: O14448.
Abstract: Final report presents findings from study examining changes in state vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies policies and procedures regarding self-employment for people with disabilities. Based on the survey of state agencies conducted in 1992, researchers recommended a model VR self-employment policy. In 2002, a follow-up survey was conducted to see if states had adopted the model policy. Results show that several agencies revised their self-employment policies. The most dramatic changes are that agencies recognize the importance of developing a business plan and provide more guidance on how to initiate and follow through on a self-employment plan.

Did you know...?

• The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has a fact sheet designed to help job seekers with disabilities navigate their rights in the hiring process
• The indepth fact sheet advises readers of their rights under Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act including accommodations during the application and interview processes, discussing disabilites with an employer, and filing discrimination charges.
• The fact sheet is available at www.eeoc.gov/facts/jobapplicant.html