Workplace culture, social interactions, and supports for transition-age young adults

The role of the workplace and its culture in supporting social inclusion an d workplace support for employees with disabilities is discussed and result s of a qualitative study of the workplace experiences of 8 young adults wit h developmental disabilities presented. Data were collected using participa nt observation and semi-structured interviews. Four characteristics of supp ortive workplaces were identified: (a) multiple context relationships, (b) specific social opportunities, (c) a personal and team-building management style, and (d) interdependent job designs. The more supportive workplaces h ad all of these characteristics, suggesting that collectively they represen t key features of a supportive workplace culture. Implications for job deve lopment and job creation are identified.