Success Factors for the Labour Market Integration of People with Psychosocial Disabilities - A Qualitative Survey in Austrian Companies

Abstract

The study examines conditions to promote employment and workplace integration of people with psychosocial disabilities. 26 guided interviews were conducted with Austrian companies. 15 of these companies employed people with mental disabilities at the time of the interview. The remaining 11 companies did not employ anyone who had a declared mental illness. Companies that employ people with mental disabilities refer to an idealistic, social or socio-political motive for employment and have manifold supportive measures in place. Companies that do not employ people with mental disabilities express insecurities and ambivalent expectations regarding employment of people with mental disabilities. Results show that it is imperative to inform companies of the possibilities and conditions of workplace integration of people with psychosocial disabilities.