The Doris Getsug Research Roundtables - Functional and Post-Structural Approaches to the Disability Narrative

The Center for Narrative & Conflict Resolution

presents

The Doris Getsug Research Roundtables

Thursday, April 13, 2017
2:30pm – 4:00pm
Metropolitan Building, room 5145
Arlington Campus

"Functional & Post-Structural Approaches to the Disability Narrative"

Research reveals people with intellectual disabilities continue to face challenges in obtaining and retaining employment. Studies are primarily confined to what does not work: analysis of employer-oriented survey, or outcome of policies and programs ineffective in reversing negative trends. Little effort focuses on Americans with intellectual disability, or the community that supports them. To make sense of narrative dynamics of marginalization reflected by an 85% unemployment rate among this population, our research targets those impacted, employing one-one-one interviews as methodology. Critical Narrative Theory’s framework guides our research and analysis, exposing impact of oppressive master narratives, and vulnerabilities therein. Our findings illuminate the need for counterstories to address challenges, so that both are better able to work together to create new narratives that address equity, and provide equality of opportunity for people with disability.

For more information, please email Jessica Smith at [email protected]