Indicators of competitive employment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) in Saudi Arabia

A qualitative study

Bibliographic Data

ID7144788
AuthorsHassan M Alzahrani (0000-0002-6598-5088, Umm al-Qura University, corresponding author)
Year2025
Volume257
Pages105049-105049
Publication date2025-05-09
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueActa Psychologica (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0001-6918 • E-ISSN: 1873-6297
PublisherElsevier BV (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1016/j.actpsy.2025.105049
PMID40347736
OpenAlexW4410229890
LanguageEN
Citations received1
References cited13

This research sought to better understand the indicators of competitive employment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs). Seven coaches of individuals with IDDs who were working with businesses that hire workers with disabilities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia were selected to participate. The qualitative phenomenological methodology was employed, with semi-structured interviews used for gathering data. An inductive method was utilized to generate themes during the coding process of the data analysis. To answer the first question regarding indicators of competitive employment for individuals with IDDs from coaches' perspectives, the findings suggested vocational training, parental support and education were all important indicators. Regarding criteria that are considered when employing individuals with IDDs, the findings stressed the importance of a suitable work environment. Regarding basic indicators that will culminate into employment, vocational training, parental support, education and psychological and social quality of life were all included. The importance of a suitable work environment and adequate support were additional determinants allowing individuals with IDD to reach their full potential

Developmental psychology · Intellectual disability · Psychiatry · Qualitative research · Social science · Sociology · Disability Education and Employment · Psychology