The role of the supervisor in successful adjustment to work with a disabling condition: Issues for disability policy and practice.

Results from an investigation of the role of supervisors in the process of adjusting to work with a disabling condition are presented. Workers with disabling conditions were interviewed about the responsiveness of their workplaces to their needs. Analyses showed that successful adjustment to work was related to the ability to complete job requirements, get along with others at work, see a future at work and feel good about work. Many supervisory behaviors were associated with these factors including the extent to which supervisors treat workers fairly, allow workers to participate in decisions related to their work and utilize the workers' skills. Implications for the development of workplace policy and disability management efforts are discussed.