A Qualitative Analysis of the Employment Needs and Barriers of Individuals With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in Rural Areas

In this article we present the results of a needs assessment evaluating the employment-based needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), from the perspectives of self-advocates, their families and care givers, and IDD service providers in a primarily rural state. Participants were recruited through statewide distribution of a questionnaire about key issues and barriers to employment. A total of 467 adults participated. Employment was identified as a top concern across the groups. An inductive thematic analysis approach was used to analyze the qualitative comments provided by respondents about their employment needs. The results were generally consistent with prior research among Americans with IDD, in that employer expectations, transportation barriers, disability benefits, limited opportunities to develop employment skills, and broader economic factors influencing the community were identified as key issues. However, the results demonstrate the magnified impact of these barriers in rural areas, particularly rural areas facing economic challenges. The results of this needs assessment are discussed in terms of the broad national implications, and in terms of the local process of engaging multiple stakeholder groups to identify potential solutions.