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Drivers of Employment for Individuals with Down Syndrome: An Exploration through the Social Ecological Model

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, 94300 Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia

2 Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia

10.34172/jqr.1292

Abstract

Background: The social integration of individuals with disabilities represents one of the most pressing challenges in contemporary social policy. Globally, people with disabilities experience disproportionately high unemployment rates. However, socioeconomic research focusing specifically on individuals with Down syndrome remains limited. There is little empirical evidence regarding their employment-related challenges, and the underlying causes of their low employment rates are not yet well understood. This study investigated the factors that facilitate employment among individuals with Down syndrome in Malaysia, drawing upon multiple social-ecological contexts.
Methods: Guided by a social constructivist paradigm, this study adopted an exploratory qualitative design. Semi-structured online interviews were conducted with 45 participants, including six individuals with Down syndrome, ten family members, six employers or coworkers, twenty-two community members, and one policymaker. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s reflexive thematic analysis approach, supported by ATLAS.ti software, to generate overarching themes and subthemes.
Results: The analysis produced a thematic map highlighting the key facilitators of employment. The identified themes included: supportive environment, (2) conducive workplace, (3) individual strengths, (4) inclusive community, and (5) family support.
Conclusion: Securing employment for individuals with Down syndrome is a complex, multidimensional issue that requires collaborative efforts across societal levels, particularly from employers and policymakers. It should not be viewed as the sole responsibility of the individual. The findings of this study may inform the development of more inclusive employment policies and practices by governmental bodies, non-governmental organizations, and private sector employers.

Keywords

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Journal of Qualitative Research in Health Sciences
Volume 14
Pages 1-9
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History
  • Receive Date: 25 July 2024
  • Revise Date: 12 November 2025
  • Accept Date: 12 November 2025
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