Supported Employment of People with Psychiatric Disabilities for the New Economy

Laysha Ostrow (IRLE Scholar)

My research project will seek to reduce disability burden and increase the contribution of people with psychiatric disabilities to the New Economy by developing adaptations in Supported Education and Employment interventions that are consistent with the current U.S. workforce demands for a knowledge/technology-based economy. Disability and unemployment rates among people with psychiatric disabilities are much higher than many other groups. Additionally, people with disabilities are underrepresented in the STEM workforce. I am researching approaches to modify education and employment programs, while attending to limitations in the educational system that disproportionately and adversely affect people with psychiatric disabilities—such as discrimination in higher education settings and lack of workplace accommodations.