A comparative analysis of employment discrimination complaints filed by people with multiple sclerosis and individuals with other disabilities

Abstract

This article describes findings from an empirical investigation of the pattern of Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Title I complaints filed with the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) by people with multiple sclerosis (MS) in comparison to the pattern of ADA Title I complaints filed by all other people with disabilities since 1993. Chi square analyses revealed that people with MS are more likely than all other complainants to charge discrimination related to benefits, health insurance, demotion, reasonable accommodations, and the terms of employment. People with MS are less likely than other complainants to file ADA Title I complaints alleging unlawful discharge, harassment, and discriminatory hiring practices. Implications of these findings for vocational rehabilitation practice are presented.