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This qualitative grounded theory research study explored whether there is evidence of disablism on Councils on Developmental Disabilities. Utilizing a semi-structured interview method, this research interviewed executive directors of Councils on Development Disabilities to determine their perceptions of disablism within their individual Councils. The data collection process yielded three conditions and one overarching condition. The overarching condition of communication is an essential component to the three remaining conditions of appointments, accommodation, and culture. The four conditions, while intertwined, are elements that promote or discourage disablism. These conditions led to the emergence of seven themes: a) mindfulness of communication, both verbal and nonverbal; b) involvement in the appointment process; c) perception of accommodations; d) creation of a culture that fosters acceptance, affirmation, and respect; e) equal distribution of power diminishes disablism, (Arnstein, 1969); f) prevention of disablism requires attentiveness; and g) disablism, while seemingly superficial, is evident. Each of these themes led to the development of a new substantive theory regarding disablism on Councils. The key to eliminating disablism is the application of the themes equally to both members with developmental disabilities and members without disabilities. Through such application, no segment of the Council membership would experience discrimination.
Advisor: | Wilkin, LaVena |
Commitee: | Daniel, Teresa A., Sheppard-Jones, Kathleen |
School: | Sullivan University |
Department: | Strategic Management |
School Location: | United States -- Kentucky |
Source: | DAI-A 80/03(E), Dissertation Abstracts International |
Source Type: | DISSERTATION |
Subjects: | Disability studies, Business administration, Organizational behavior |
Keywords: | Councils on Developmental Disabilities, Disablism, Discrimination |
Publication Number: | 10974348 |
ISBN: | 978-0-438-54092-7 |