Myths About Hiring People With Disabilities

Source: Brock University, Co-op, Career Experiential Education

Author/Writer: Not listed

Date of publication: Fall 2018

Summary

There are many employment-related misconceptions about people with disabilities. These myths can result in discrimination during the hiring process and instances of ableism while the individual is employed. These misconceptions are one of the major perceived barriers to employment for youth with disabilities.

Examples of myths about hiring people with disabilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Employees with disabilities cause insurance rates to increase.
  • Employees with disabilities have a higher turnover and absenteeism rate than their colleagues without disabilities.
  • Accommodations for employees with disabilities are costly.

The opposite of these myths is often true. Employees with disabilities have a lower rate of experiencing health and safety incidents. They are more likely to remain with an employer for the long term, and requested accommodations cost an average of $500 with 60% of accommodations costing nothing.

Key Findings

It is important to raise awareness about these myths. They still have a significant impact on employers, their hiring practices and unconscious biases.

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