title: Workplace culture, social interactions, and supports for transition-age young adults.
abstract: The role of the workplace and its culture in supporting social inclusion and workplace support for employees with disabilities is discussed and results of a qualitative study of the workplace experiences of 8 young adults with developmental disabilities presented. Data were collected using participant observation and semi-structured interviews. Four characteristics of supportive workplaces were identified: (a) multiple context relationships, (b) specific social opportunities, (c) a personal and team-building management style, and (d) interdependent job designs. The more supportive workplaces had all of these characteristics, suggesting that collectively they represent key features of a supportive workplace culture. Implications for job development and job creation are identified.
authors.affiliation: Institute for Community Inclusion (UAP), Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Butterworth
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Hagner
authors.forename: D T
authors.initials: DT
authors.lastname: Helm
authors.forename: T A
authors.initials: TA
authors.lastname: Whelley
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D006233:Persons with Disabilities / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D015279:Organizational Culture; D012944:Social Support; D017132:Workplace