Lived experiences of persons with disabilities as they journey towards employment

• Main Author: Tanteko, Maria Felizel S.
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Animo Repository 2018
• Subjects: People with disabilities > Employment > Philippines; People with disabilities > Philippines
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/etd_masteral/5458
• Institution: De La Salle University

Obtaining employment is one of the most apparent expectation and goal for an individual as they enter adulthood. However, gaining employment in the country poses numerous challenges to everyone including persons with disabilities. Review of related literature suggests that the process of transition maybe more challenging to these individuals than to their non-disabled peers because of factors such as discrimination. This qualitative study aimed to explore the lived experiences of four persons with disability in gaining employment. A phenomenological approach in data gathering and analysis was conducted and a total of 9 themes emerged in this process : Discrimination or Feeling of Being Undervalued, Familial Support or Influence, Obstacles, Career Decision Making, Self-awareness, Skills Acquisition Training Experience, Employment Experience, Importance of Having a Job and Future Goals. This study revealed that the PWDs exhibited optimism and resiliency in overcoming certain employment challenges. Family support played as significant factor in their experiences and decisions in their careers. Various limitations and recommendations have been discussed.