Identifying Work Preferences Prior to Supported Work for an Individual with Multiple Severe Disabilities Including Deaf-Blindness

Abstract

We evaluated a pre-work assessment for predicting task preferences during supported work with an individual who has profound mental retardation as well as deafness and blindness. The assessment method included specific components for familiarizing an individual with visual and auditory impairment with available work tasks. The individual's task selections were compared for three work tasks drawn from his future job duties. Results of the worker's choices, once he began his supported job in a publishing company, indicated the pre-work assessment predicted tasks that the worker preferred to perform during his routine job. Results are discussed regarding the benefits of determining work preferences prior to beginning supported work. Areas for future research are also noted, focusing on developing additional procedures for matching individuals with deaf-blindness with preferred work activities.

Keywords

pre-work assessment mental retardation work tasks

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