For many years, it has generally been recognized that persons having severe developmental disabilities could learn vocational tasks and perform these tasks productively in work settings. Techniques for developing vocational skills and related work behaviors are now widely available, yet most adults having severe disabilities remain without employment. Recent federal activities, including the passage of the Developmental Disabilities Act of 1984, have focused attention upon creating employment options for persons regardless of their level of disability. This article examines the emerging features of “supported employment,” a framework for employing persons normally served in segregated day activity and work activity centers.
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