Persons’ with epilepsy experience in labour market – variations in urban and rural areas

Abstract

Introduction. Epilepsy is one of the most prevailing neurological diseases; any person at any period of life can experience it. Persons with epilepsy face multiple health, psychological, social and economic challenges. Even if the right to work is ensured in various international and national legislations, reality shows that implementation of that right is complicated in many countries. Aim. The aim of the presentation is to reveal how the right to work for persons with epilepsy is implemented in Lithuania by investigating their subjective experience. Material and Methods. The study is based on qualitative research methodology. Criteria sample was used in the research, the research participants were selected by the following criteria: diagnosis of epilepsy, episodes of attacks, 30-40 years old, and experience in labour market. The participants were from urban and rural areas. By using content analysis of qualitative data, three categories with subcategories were formulated: motivation (high motivation for employment, demotivating factors), experience in labour market (negative emotions during job interview, hiding illness, consequences of hiding illness, stress for possible attack at work), relations with employees (expectations toward employees, stigmatised attitude of employees, stereotypical thinking, necessity for individualised relations). Results. The analysis emphasises challenges which research participants face in urban and rural areas, as well as employment history differences depending on the area. The research data show that persons with epilepsy have high motivation in searching the job and attempting to stay in labour market, because they want financial stability, safety and inclusion in social life. However, despite high motivation, it is difficult to find a job and stay in labour market. The main demotivating factors are painful experience during job interviews and not adjusted working condition[...].