Experience of persons with epilepsy in labour market

Abstract

The goal of the article is to reveal how is implemented the right to working for persons’ with epilepsy by investigating their subjective experience. The article is based on qualitative research methodology. By using content analysis three categories with subcategories were formulated: motivation (high motivation for employment, demotivating factors), experience in labour market (negative emotions during job interview, hiding the illness, consequences of illness’s hiding, stress for possible seizure at work), relations with employees (expectations toward employees, stigmatized attitude of employees, stereotypical thinking). Research data shows that persons with epilepsy have high motivation in searching job and attempting to stay in labour market, because they want financial stability, safety and inclusion in social life. The main demotivating factors are painful experience during job interviews; not adjusted working conditions and environment. Persons with epilepsy experience negative emotions during job interviews, they are hiding their illness from employees as long as it is possible, but even after illnesses revealing, they constantly feel stress for possible seizure. Research participants have clear and specific expectations to employees, they feel stigmatized, stereotypical attitudes from them, and want individualized approach to situation, adjustment of working conditions to their abilities.