A sample of 200 adults with mild mental retardation was assessed on overall job satisfaction and self-esteem using the Vocational Program Evaluation Profile and the Coopersmith Self-esteem Inventory. The subjects worked either in a sheltered workshop or in a supported employment setting. Results indicated that there was a significant relationship between self-esteem and job satisfaction for both groups of subjects. In addition, subjects who worked in supported employment reported significantly higher levels of job satisfaction. There was also an interaction between place of residence and place of employment when looking at self-esteem; those who lived in a semi-independent home and worked in supported employment reported the highest levels of self-esteem. These results were discussed in terms of the social validity of supported-employment for persons with mild mental retardation.
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