Effects of Customized Employment on the Independence of Youth With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Participation in work during school is a known predictor of postsecondary employment for transition-age youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Recent research has demon-strated the benefits of work on skill development in major life domains. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of customized employment on the support needs of youth with IDD with a significant disability compared to those receiving treatment as usual. Findings indicated significant increases in independence in three specific domains for the treatment group versus control on the Supports Intensity Scale-Adult Version, including Home Living, Employment, and Protection and Advocacy. Findings suggest a therapeutic eect of work activities on growth and development in important life domains. Implications for future research, policy, and practice are discussed.

Automated summary

This study examined the impact of customized employment on the support needs of youth with IDD with a significant disability. Findings indicated significant increases in independence in domains such as Home Living, Employment, and Protection and Advocacy. The results suggest that work activities have a therapeutic effect on growth and development in important life domains.