The role of physical disabilities in early career: Vocational choice, the school-to-work transition, and becoming established

Abstract

This article examines the impact of physical disabilities on early career opportunities, particularly in vocational choice, the school-to-work transition, and becoming established in early career paths. Using motivation theory, the paper presents a framework for understanding how people with disabilities identify career goals, form expectancies about being able to achieve career goals, and perceive barriers to achieving those goals during early career development. The article then identifies the individual differences and situational factors that may moderate the relationships between physical disabilities and early career opportunities. Finally, the article concludes with directions for future research and implications for how employers, governmental agencies, and individuals with disabilities can implement more effective early career development strategies.