Abstract
This phenomenological qualitative study explores the lived experiences of Kentucky parents seeking Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE) for their children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Guided by the research questions—How do parents experience this process, and what barriers or supports do they encounter?—the study highlights systemic challenges despite legislative efforts such as the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. In-depth interviews with five parents revealed three themes: (a) parental transformation and the pursuit of meaningful work, (b) systemic challenges in accessing CIE, and (c) overcoming protective instincts: navigating fear, independence, and self-advocacy. Findings suggest a shift from passive support to active advocacy, underscoring the need for improved vocational support services and targeted policy interventions.
Plain Language Summary
Competitive integrated employment (CIE) means people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) have jobs where they earn fair pay. They also get to work alongside people without disabilities. These jobs help people with I/DD feel included and more independent. Even though CIE is a goal for many, some people with I/DD still work in sheltered workshops. These are places where people with disabilities work separately and are often paid less than minimum wage. While these workshops are legal, they can make it harder for people to reach their full potential.
Research shows that sheltered workshops do not help people with I/DD get better jobs later in life. These jobs often lead to lower pay and cost more to run. On the other hand, real job experiences, job training, or college programs give young people with I/DD more chances to succeed. These opportunities build skills and confidence. They also help them feel like a part of their communities. People with I/DD who earn less than minimum wage often struggle to afford basic needs like food, housing, and transportation. This can make it difficult for them to live on their own. Some programs support people with disabilities in finding and keeping jobs in the community. These programs work. Still, less than one-third of adults with I/DD have jobs in regular workplaces.
This study looks at parents in Kentucky who are helping their children with I/DD find real jobs. The study shares their stories, challenges, and different ways they support their children’s futures. By learning from their experiences, we can better understand what helps or gets in the way. Also, we can find ways to create more job opportunities for people with I/DD across the state.
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Recommended Citation
Omar, Dr. Aisha J.
(2026)
"Parents’ Lived Experiences with Competitive Integrated Employment for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disability,"
Developmental Disabilities Network Journal: Vol. 5:
Iss.
2, Article 11.
DOI: 10.59620/2694-1104.1152
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/ddnj/vol5/iss2/11
Included in
Accessibility Commons, Developmental Psychology Commons, Development Studies Commons, Disability Law Commons, Disability Studies Commons, Early Childhood Education Commons, Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research Commons, Family and Consumer Sciences Commons, Other Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons, Personality and Social Contexts Commons, Social Justice Commons, Social Policy Commons, Social Work Commons
