Organizational Context and Satisfaction of Basic Needs of Workers with Intellectual Disability as Sources of Well-Being

Abstract

The inclusion of persons with intellectual disabilities (ID) through integrated employment is essential for achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This research study examines how organizational contextual factors facilitate or hinder the inclusion and positive contributions of workers with ID in their workplaces, as well as organizational practices that satisfy their basic needs (autonomy, competence, and relatedness), thus promoting their well-being. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with experts in integrated employment, workers with ID, and supervisors. Content analysis was then performed using the grounded theory methodology. Data analysis revealed three main categories: (1) organizational contextual factors that favor inclusion and positive contributions of workers with ID; (2) organizational contextual factors that hinder inclusion and positive contributions of workers with ID; and (3) organizational practices that satisfy basic needs of workers with ID. These findings underscore the importance of creating work environments that promote inclusion, positive contributions, and satisfaction of the basic needs of workers with ID, thus fostering their well-being and professional development.