Article

Paid work is seen as a key outcome in rehabilitation. However, research
demonstrates that because of normative expectations in the job market and
workplace, experiences of disability can be intensified in a work context. We
sought to explore this issue in more depth by analysing the effects of societal
constructions of worker 'value' within individual case studies of people with
acquired neurological injury. METHOD: Instrumental case study of four
heterogeneous participants, employing a discourse analysis approach. RESULTS:
Participants described a perpetuation of discourses in which a disabled body or
mind itself is seen to qualify, disqualify or limit a person's value in employment. Nevertheless, interviews also highlighted discourses that constructed
other worker identities: based on pre-injury identities, life experiences and
other aspects of self. The contrasts between individuals illustrated how worker
identities, when situated within broader societal discourses of worker 'value',
can either constrain or expand the vocational opportunities available to
individuals who experience disability. However, current and historical
interactions about worker 'value' shaped the identities genuinely available to
each individual. CONCLUSION: Understanding how societal discourses enable and
constrain worker identities may be vital to (a) facilitating valid opportunities
and (b) navigating situations that could unintentionally hinder vocational
possibilities. Implications for Rehabilitation This study shows how worker
identities, situated within societal discourses of worker 'value', can constrain
or broaden vocational opportunities available to individuals who experience
disability. Barriers to gaining, maintaining and developing in employment could
be re-envisaged in terms of what is limiting a person's ability to embody an
enabling identity. A knowledge of both societal discourses and individuals'
interactions with them may be vital to facilitating opportunities that users of
rehabilitation services experience as valid options. This knowledge can also
provide information with which to navigate situations that could potentially
(sometimes unintentionally) constrain vocational possibilities.

Langue : ANGLAIS