Understanding the impact of functioning on career factors for individuals with disabilities and criminal backgrounds

Abstract

Abstract Securing meaningful employment following incarceration has proven to be difficult for all individuals but disproportionately affects individuals with disabilities. Despite this knowledge, less research is focused on examining how various aspects of functioning impact specific behaviors related to career development. Utilizing a survey of 61 individuals, all of whom self-reported as having disabilities and prior criminal justice involvement, the current study investigated the relationship between individual functioning and career development variables. Results from this study can better inform reentry and rehabilitation professionals on how to provide support to individuals with disabilities and criminal backgrounds in gaining meaningful employment upon release.