Inclusion as a focus of employment-related research in intellectual disability from 2000 to 2010: a scoping review

Abstract

Purpose: This paper presents the results of a scoping review of the research literature on community-based employment for individuals with intellectual disabilities from 2000 to 2010. The review examined the variables studied in each paper, and considered the degree to which elements of social inclusion were addressed. Method: The search strategy identified a total of 245 articles, the total pool of which was reduced to 42 following abstract and text review. Two researchers reviewed the final set of articles and extracted information relevant to the study goals. Independent and dependent measures used in the studies were categorized relative to a conceptual model of social inclusion. The frequency with which each aspect of inclusion was addressed in the studies was totalled, and the resulting pattern analyzed qualitatively. Results: The analysis revealed that the majority of papers identified the work role achieved (i.e. employment and pay rates, job titles) as the primary construct of interest, while fewer than 5 articles focused on central aspects of inclusion, such as sense of belonging, reciprocity, and need fulfillment. Conclusions: This study profiles the evidence base relative to inclusive employment for people with intellectual disabilities. The lack of evidence on the degree to which social inclusion is being achieved through community-based employment highlights a critical area requiring attention.

Implications for Rehabilitation

• Work is an important social and financial involvement for persons with disabilities, and provides a potentially rich venue for social inclusion.

• Supported employment has become an accepted best practice in employment of persons with intellectual and other disabilities.

• While past research has focused on outcomes related to social integration, studies that examine and promote central features of social inclusion are important to move practice forward.

Keywords::

• Social inclusion
• employment
• productivity

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to thank the individuals who contributed to the development of the model of social inclusion, especially H. Ouellette-Kuntz, H. Stuart, R. Brown, Y. Lachapelle, R. Hickey, Y. Lunsky, and L. Martin.

Declaration of Interest: This work was funded by the Ministry of Community and Social Services (MCSS) of Ontario as part of the Multi-Dimensional Assessment of Programs and Services (MAPS) initiative (www.mapsresearch.ca). The authors assume full responsibility for the contents of this paper. The views expressed do not necessarily represent the views of the MCSS.