Disability disclosure as an impression management technique used in the workplace: A grounded theory investigation.

Abstract

In order to overcome obstacles to entry and inclusion in the workplace, individuals with disabilities engage in various impression management strategies to present themselves as the socially acceptable 'ideal employee.' This study expands on previous disclosure research by asking individuals with disabilities to share their experiences of identity management and workplace challenges. We leveraged qualitative research techniques to explore the reciprocal impact of workplace treatment and disclosure. Impression management emerged as an especially salient aspect of participants' disclosure decisions, and participants used an array of impression management tactics. Some employees with disabilities described positive experiences; however, we also learned that impression management can present unique challenges that may outweigh potential benefits. Our findings affirm that managing the image we project can be remarkably complicated and effortful when having a disability. This paper concludes with implementation recommendations for vocational rehabilitation counselors and human resource practitioners.