Factors Affecting Employment for Early Adults With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: Influence of Supported Employment

Abstract

Public policy directives have emphasized Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE) as the primary employment outcome for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), yet their overall employment rates remain low. Supported Employment (SE) offers evidence-based vocational rehabilitation with personalized workplace support for CIE success. This study aims to predict CIE outcomes for youth and young adults with IDD by evaluating demographics, SE, and adjunctive state vocational rehabilitation agency (SVRA) services. Analyzing data from 67,884 individuals using hierarchical logistic regression, we found SE significantly associated with CIE success. Adjunctive SVRA services, including workplace support, job placement, and job search assistance, also played crucial roles. These findings emphasize SE’s efficacy in helping youth and young adults with IDD achieve CIE, guiding vocational professionals.