Perceptions of the obstacles to work reintegration for persons with aphasia

The Handicap Creation Process Model (HCPM) suggests that persons with disabilities may experience difficulties at work because of environmental barriers. The present study reports on the perceptions of persons with aphasia, of speech-language pathologists and of employers regarding the potential barriers to job (re)integration. Statements were gathered using a focus group and a nominal group technique, and analysed according to whether the barriers were perceived as residing with the individual, with the organization or with society. Qualitative differences were noted among the perceptions of the three groups. Speech-language pathologists focused on the personal and societal barriers where employers focused on the organizational barriers. Persons with aphasia perceived barriers at all levels. Suggestions for strategies for eliminating these barriers for persons with communication disorders were also collected.