EMPLOYMENT OF INDIVIDUALS WITH NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS: A SCOPING REVIEW OF CONTEXTUAL FACTORS

Abstract

Background: Individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders are unemployed or underemployed at staggering rates. Employment for this population is impacted by many factors, including contextual issues. This review was conducted to enhance understanding of contextual factors influencing employment procurement for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders. Methodology: The Arksey and O’Malley scoping review framework was utilized to examine five databases and sources of grey literature regarding the contextual factors influencing employment procurement for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders. Articles were analyzed using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health criteria for Contextual Factors, including both Environmental and Personal Factors. Results: The findings from 41 articles indicate that Contextual Factors, Environmental Factors and Personal Factors influence employment procurement by creating both barriers and facilitators to obtaining employment for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders. Conclusion: A focus on contextual factors that impact individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders may provide further insight into the facilitators and barriers influencing employment outcomes. Further research should aim to understand the strength of relationships and to expand the use and application of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health’s biopsychosocial framework. This research can aid in promoting the employment outcomes for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders.