“I’m Going to Be a Working Person”: Self-Determination in Employment Settings for Adults With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) often face societal barriers to accessing employment due to stigma and discrimination. For people with IDD who have an employment history, little is known about their experiences in accessing employment opportunities. Self-determination behaviors are considered an integral component to a successful adulthood, yet there is limited research that gives voice to people with IDD describing their self-determination and experiences with employment. This study used qualitative content analysis to examine self-determination behaviors in employment experiences of 18 adults with disabilities. Participants provided clear examples of self-determined behaviors which benefited their navigation in work and life. Participants shared advice for other adults with IDD on how to attain employment. Implications for future research and practices are provided.