EFN

In March 2006, “PSYCHIATRIC SERVICES” published a research analysis of diagnosed mentally challenged individuals, in the work force. Researched by Dr. Marjorie L. Baldwin, of the Arizona State University School of Health Management and Policy, and Dr. Steven C. Marcus, of the University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy and Practice, this study examined 66,000 members of the Industrial Work Force,

The researchers concluded that, mentally challenged workers studied, who reported stigmatizing experiences, were more likely to have functional limitations than those who did not.

Hence, mentally challenged workers (18%) who did not experience disabling symptoms, such as confusion, disorientation, and forgetfulness, were also less likely to feel stigmatized, on their jobs, irrespective of pay, or status. The study, which targeted employed persons, with “serious” mental illnesses, defined by IDC Uniform Mental Health Codes, included subjects who were, most frequently, not in high-paying jobs.

The report also found that productive, highly skilled workers, with diagnosed mental illnesses, did not feel stigmatized, if their job skills transcended their medical issues. But the majority of workers included in this “service” industry study were also women. Hence it was speculated that male workers, with problematic mental health histories, might encounter different discriminatory practices