Model System:

TBI

Reference Type:

Journal

Accession No.:

J78688

Journal:


ILR Review

Year, Volume, Issue, Page(s):

, 71, 2, 329-364

Publication Website:

Abstract:

Study investigated potential discrimination against people with disabilities through a field experiment that sent 6,016 job applications for open accounting positions using fictional résumés and cover letters. One-third of the cover letters disclosed that the applicant had a spinal cord injury, one-third disclosed the presence of Asperger’s syndrome, and one-third did not mention disability. These disabilities were chosen because they would not be expected to limit productivity in accounting positions. The disability applications received 26 percent fewer expressions of employer interest. This gap was concentrated among experienced applicants and small private companies that are not covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Tests suggest possible positive effects of the ADA, but not of state laws, in reducing the disability gap. The results indicate there may be substantial room for employer and policy initiatives to improve employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Author(s):


Ameri, Mason, Schur, Lisa, Adya, Meera, Bentley, F. Scott, McKay, Patrick, Kruse, Douglas

Participating Centers: