Identifying Factors Facilitating Employment Readiness in Individuals With Physical Disabilities
Keywords:
employment readiness, physical disabilities, qualitative research, vocational rehabilitation, workplace inclusion, accessibilityAbstract
This study aimed to identify the key personal, social, environmental, and experiential factors that facilitate employment readiness among individuals with physical disabilities in Canada. This qualitative study employed a descriptive–exploratory design using semi-structured interviews with 24 adults with physical disabilities residing in Canada. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling from disability organizations, rehabilitation networks, and online communities. Interviews were conducted virtually or in person, audio-recorded with consent, and transcribed verbatim. Data collection continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. Thematic analysis was conducted using NVivo software to support systematic coding, category development, and theme refinement. Analytic rigor was enhanced through constant comparison, peer debriefing, audit-trail documentation, and member-checking with a subset of participants. Four major themes emerged. (1) Personal capacities—including self-efficacy, psychological resilience, adaptability, and health-management strategies—significantly enhanced participants’ sense of readiness. (2) Supportive social and environmental systems, such as family encouragement, peer networks, vocational professionals, and inclusive workplace cultures, facilitated confidence and access to opportunities. (3) Environmental and structural enablers, including accessible infrastructure, assistive technologies, flexible work arrangements, and disability-friendly hiring practices, reduced systemic barriers and strengthened readiness. (4) Employment-related experiences and identity formation, such as prior work exposure, positive employer interactions, and successful accommodation histories, contributed to vocational identity and perceived preparedness. Overall, readiness emerged as a dynamic process shaped by the interplay of internal strengths, social supports, structural resources, and developmental work experiences. The findings demonstrate that employment readiness among individuals with physical disabilities extends beyond individual skills and is profoundly influenced by social relationships, organizational practices, and structural accessibility.
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