VOCATIONAL STATUS OF PERSONS WITH SPINAL-CORD INJURY LIVING IN THE COMMUNITY

A sample of 140 persons was drawn randomly from a community-based samp ling frame of 640 persons with spinal cord injury (SCI) to examine the vocational status of persons with SCI living in the community. Indivi dual differences in vocational status and productivity were explored i n terms of (a) demographic variables such as sex and age and (b) varia bles associated with the concepts of impairment and disability as defi ned by the World Health Organization (WHO; 1980). Data were derived fr om questionnaires, a home interview, and a comprehensive physical exam ination conducted at a rehabilitation hospital. Of the participants, 2 7% were employed, with 35% in unpaid productive activities, and 38% un employed. Sex, ethnicity, education, and disability were statistically significant correlates of vocational status.