Strengthening the role of the employee: An analysis of supported employment using social role valorization theory

Abstract

At the age of thirty, supported employment has given rise to significant accomplishments, but much of its promise remains unfulfilled. Wolfensberger's Social Role Valorization (SRV) theory offers a substantive method for analyzing and strengthening supported employment practices while describing principles for addressing patterns of social devaluation imposed on people with disabilities. Using formal SRV theory, this paper will explore the power of the employee role. Improved clarity about the role of employee, when it exists and when it does not (i.e., “my employee” versus “your client”) represents one way to bolster supported employment and increase positive possibilities in life for people with disabilities.