Health Needs Above of Automation Fears: The Role of the Future of Work in Shaping Career Decisions and Appraisals of Employment Among Young Adults with Disabilities

Abstract Objectives. Technological, sociopolitical and environmental forces are changing the working world and creating conditions that could be disadvantageous to young adults with disabilities. Our study aims to examine the thoughts and perceptions held by young adults with disabilities regarding the future of work.Methods. One-on-one semi-structured interviews with Canadian young adult (ages 18-35 years) with a disability were conducted. Participants were asked questions on their thoughts and perceptions regarding the impact the changing nature and availability of work on their labor market involvement and career aspirations. Themes that emerged from the data were inductively examined. Results. Twenty-two young adults were interviewed of which just over half were employed full-time. Career aspirations and work-related decisions were primarily shaped by a participant’s health needs. Aspects of the future of work were seen as a more proximal determinants to employment. Digital technologies were expected to impact working conditions for people with disabilities and create barriers and facilitators to employment. Participant who were securely employed held positive expectations regarding the impact of digital technology on their work. Conversely, participants working precariously held negative appraisals regarding the impact of digital technologies on employment opportunities.Conclusions. Initiatives that support labor market engagement of young adults with disabilities should consider changes in the future of work and emerging health needs while also accounting for the availability of secure work arrangements.