Early Employment Experiences of Canadian Young Adults Living with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Juvenile Arthritis and Spinal Cord Injury
Year: 2013
Type: dissertation
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Participating in employment is an important milestone signaling the transition to adulthood. Few studies have examined how chronic diseases influence early work experiences. Purpose: This study examined barriers and facilitators to the employment status of young adults, ages 18-30 years, with systemic lupus erythematosus, juvenile arthritis and spinal cord injury; researched employment outcomes like work-health conflict, absenteeism, job disruptions and perceived productivity loss; and investigated barriers to employment among those not working. Methods: 155 participants were recruited from clinics in four Canadian provinces. Participants completed a 30-minute online cross-sectional survey of their work experiences. Demographic, health, psychosocial and work context information was collected. Bivariate and multivariable analyses were performed. Results: Over half of respondents were employed; a quarter of respondents were enrolled in school. Older participants, those reporting greater independence/autonomy, and participants reporting that fewer job accommodations would help them work, were more likely to be employed. Employed participants reported moderate work-health conflict and close to half reported absenteeism, job disruptions and some productivity losses. Greater perceived independence/autonomy, less fatigue and disease activity, and disclosing to others was related to lower work-health conflict. Less fatigue and social support, and greater self-disclosure and job control were related to absenteeism. Job control also was associated with less productivity loss. Among respondents not working, health was generally not a perceived barrier to employment, but drug benefits and work scheduling flexibility were desirable accommodations. Conclusions: Respondents were able to work and be productive despite health problems like pain, fatigue and activity limitations. Relationships with others that were supportive but also fostered independence/autonomy were important to the employment experiences of respondents and deserve greater attention in research. Policies and practices that emphasize work scheduling flexibility and recognize the importance of ongoing health management may help young adults with chronic diseases find and maintain work.
Source: TSpace (University of Toronto)
Author: Arif Jetha
Language: English
Subfield: Education
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2761843095