Date of Conferral

12-3-2025

Date of Award

December 2025

Degree

Doctor of Human Services (D.H.S.)

School

Human Services

Advisor

Barbara Benoliel

Abstract

There is a growing need for supported employment services and improved programming among people with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD). The research question for this study was; what are human service staff and administrators’ experiences and perceptions of what is working well in supported employment programs, and how to improve the services offered to adults with I/DD in a northeastern county? The tenets of Kurt Lewin’s change model form the theoretical framework for the study, to serve as a foundation for effective change. A force field analysis approach was used to gather narrative written data from open ended questionnaire responses to grasp staff-outlined factors that are believed to promote or hinder program changes, thus suggesting a solution-driven plan of action. Findings from the study further inform existing programs and indicated a) an identified need for enhancing staff and employer training and preparation for supporting I/DD job placement, b) additional funds needed to hire more staff, and c) a focus on whole person-centered services for I/DD clients. The findings may contribute to positive social change by improving employment independence for people with I/DD, enhancing service delivery outcomes provided by employment agencies, and promoting increased job training skills that will drive involvement in and collaborations with employers in the job market.

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