Work and Disability Basic Concepts

Work is a central aspect of human life. Not only is work a means by which individuals defi ne tzhemselves in society, but it is also part of the very fabric of societies. The relationship of people to work is interac-tive, reciprocal, and complex. Specifi cally, work affects and is affected by individual, economic, social, cultural, and other factors (Blustein, 2008). Disability often complicates the interrelationships between people and work (Fassinger, 2008). It may affect work productivity and relation-ships with coworkers. Rehabilitation professionals who provide services to with people with disabilities must therefore understand the complex nature of work to assist individuals in attaining and maintaining work and interacting effectively and appropriately with workplace colleagues. This chapter provides an introduction to the complex relationship be-tween work and disability. It begins with a discussion of the social and psychological aspects of work and continues with a description of current work trends. Finally, an introduction to the remaining book chapters is presented