The effects of sociodemographic and contextual factors on employment of persons with mental retardation living in residential facilities

Abstract

Data from a 1987 national sample of persons in residential facilities were used to assess the effects of sociodemographic and contextual factors on rates of paid employment among this population. The results showed that age, race, facility type, and U.S. Census Region had significant effects on the likelihood of any type of paid employment even when controlling for the individual's functional limitations, level of retardation, and SSI status. Sex and county unemployment rate had independent effects on the likelihood of being employed in supported or competitive employment. As more persons with mental retardation move into competitive employment arrangement, those concerned with increasing access to employment should give some consideration to factors not directly associated with physical and intellectual functioning.