First Advisor

Stephanie A. Bryson

Term of Graduation

Spring 2024

Date of Publication

5-20-2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Social Work and Social Research

Department

Social Work

Language

English

DOI

10.15760/etd.3753

Physical Description

1 online resource (ix, 130 pages)

Abstract

This study examines the experiences of discrimination and the strategies used to navigate employment for women of color and nonbinary people of color (POC) with cognitive disabilities (CD) through their own narratives. Using Dis/ability Critical Race Theory and an interpretive description methodology, this study engaged 10 women of color and/or nonbinary POC with CD in semi-structured interviews in order to answer the following research questions: 1) What stories do women of color and nonbinary POC with CD tell about their experiences seeking employment? 2) What are the narratives of women and nonbinary POC with CD about their experiences of racism, sexism, and/or ableism when seeking employment? 3) What strategies do women and nonbinary POC with CD use to navigate the labor market? Findings indicate that they have a strong desire to work, contribute, and belong to the community in which they live. Findings also show that despite daily occurrences of discrimination and microaggressions and lack of support from external organizations, participants create their own supports and strategies that allow them to pursue their goals. Study findings have practical implications for employment services and supports, future research in disability and employment, and the field of social work.

Rights

© 2024 Laura Spura Rodriguez

In Copyright. URI: http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/ This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s).

Persistent Identifier

https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/42210

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