Relationship Between the Consumption Status of Households That Include Individuals With Physical Disabilities and Their Employment

Abstract

This study investigates whether the consumption of households that include individuals with physical disabilities (IWPD) depends on the employment status of such individuals. Data from the 2012 Panel Survey of Employment for the Disabled (PSED) conducted by the Korea Employment Agency for the Disabled were used to ascertain the consumption patterns, consumption functions, income elasticity, and Engel coefficient of households that include IWPD. An independent t test was used to differentiate between employment and unemployment status. The results revealed that the consumption patterns of such households were similar to those of a typical poor household. Although these patterns did not differ according to the employment status of IWPD, the number of items in the consumption expenditure of a household that includes employed IWPD was larger than that of a household that includes unemployed IWPD. Income had a significant effect on all expenditure items. Furthermore, only savings were classified as a luxury, regardless of employment status. The analysis results of this study could enable researchers to capture the problems facing IWPD and provide greater insight into their economic status.