An Action Research on Employability Assessment, Challenges, and Coping Mechanism of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Applying for a Job

Abstract

This research aimed to describe the self-perceived employability and lived experiences of persons with disabilities (PWDs) who are unemployed and face discrimination within the employment market. The results were gathered through mixed-method and action research approaches. There were forty-two respondents coming from three barangays in Koronadal City, South Cotabato, and their demographic profiles were further identified by their age, educational attainment, gender, and type of disability. Then, their self-perceived employability was measured, and from the findings, PWDs have moderate employability in communication skills but have challenges in expressive writing, showing low employability. They also have employable collaboration skills but may need help with individual projects. Professional development skills show employability in self-management skills but areas for improvement in technology-related tasks and preparedness because of low employability scores. From the thematic analysis, recurring themes reveal that PWDs face challenges such as social stigma, disproportionate requirements, and poor accommodation from employers, which hinder them from successful employment, and the coping mechanisms in response to those are persistent job hunting, acceptance of one’s disability, presentable appearance, spiritual reliance, alternative working and seeking assistance. The findings from the research then suggest an intervention program that aims to develop basic employment literacy skills among PWDs to raise the chances of PWDs being accepted in the labor force, which contributes to the sustainable development goals of reducing inequalities and promoting decent work for all.