The relationship between job satisfaction and psychological health in people with an intellectual disability in competitive employment

Abstract

The “spillover” hypothesis states that job satisfaction, or dissatisfaction, influences life satisfaction. The present study sought to test this hypothesis with workers with an intellectual disability in competitive employment. Ratings of job satisfaction and psychological health (self-esteem, stigma, loneliness and aspirations) were obtained from thirty-one workers (15 males, 16 females) with a mild intellectual disability, aged between 18 and 41 years. Additionally, thirty workers took part in the follow-up interview. Findings indicated that workers with an intellectual disability reported that they were positive and “happy” with their jobs. There was only partial support, however, for a spillover effect with job satisfaction and psychological health. These findings highlight the need for greater consideration and exploration of the psychological processes of workers with an intellectual disability in integrated employment settings.