Abstract
The goal of the article is to reveal how the right to work is implemented regarding persons with epilepsy by investigating their subjective experience. The article is based on qualitative research methodology. By using content analysis three categories with subcategories were formulated: motivation (high motivation for employment, demotivating factors), experience in labour market (negative emotions during job interview, hiding the illness, consequences of hiding the illness, stress for possible seizure at work), relations with employers (expectations toward employers, stigmatized attitude of employers, stereotypical thinking). Research data shows that persons with epilepsy have high motivation in searching job and attempting to stay in labour market, because they want financial stability, safety and inclusion in social life. The main demotivating factors are painful experience during job interviews; not adjusted working conditions and environment. Persons with epilepsy experience negative emotions during job interviews, they hide their illness from employers as long as it is possible, but even after illness is discovered they constantly feel stress for possible seizure. Research participants have clear and specific expectations, they feel stigmatized, stereotypical attitudes to them, and want individualized approach to the situation, and adjustment of working conditions to their abilities.
Highlights
Epilepsy is one of the most prevalent neurological disorders
There is no exact statistical data as number of persons with epilepsy includes those only who have disability determined by medical authorities [1]
There is no necessary assessment, rehabilitation model, support system for persons with epilepsy [2]. This illness is surrounded by fear and mystery; persons with epilepsy find difficulties in leading meaningful social life
Summary
Epilepsy is one of the most prevalent neurological disorders. It could affect any person no matter their age, gender, origin or other factors. Selection criteria for research participants were: diagnosis of epilepsy, illness seizures, working age, and experience in labour market. Attitudes toward persons with epilepsy depend on historical, psychosocial and medical understanding of the illness. Persons with epilepsy very often lead an excluded life, have low self-esteem, they are stigmatized, prone to depression, have fears, are not motivated to study or work, have communication difficulties [22]. Research data shows that employment is one of the biggest problems for persons with epilepsy; every third respondent defined the problem as very important [24] Very often these persons do not work, not because of health problems or incapacity to complete the tasks at work, but because of low motivation and negative attitudes to the illness by employers and persons with epilepsy themselves [25]. It is necessary to reduce negative attitudes to persons with epilepsy by constantly educating society [28]
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