Employment Interventions for Youth With Disabilities: A Review of Transition Practices and Partners

Abstract

The employment process for youth with disabilities often begins in high school. Although connecting youth to work is a recommended practice, the literature lacks a review of available interventions. This scoping review examined the practices and partners represented in 42 intervention studies addressing employment outcomes for transition-age youth (14–22 years old) with disabilities. These interventions varied widely, with a total of 25 components addressing employment preparation, job placement, other supports for youth, supports for other stakeholders, and collaborative/organizational strategies. Although families and employers participated in these interventions, the most prominent players were school staff and agency providers. We offer recommendations for research and practice around strengthening employment practices and engaging multiple stakeholders in preparing youth with disabilities for work.