Employment First Values, Person-Centered Planning & Self-Determination Flashcards

What is the central principle of Employment First?

Answer: Competitive integrated employment should be the first and preferred outcome for people with disabilities, including those with significant disabilities

Employment First is a framework adopted by APSE and many states. It holds that competitive integrated employment in the community is the first and preferred service outcome for working-age people with disabilities, whatever the type or level of disability.

Which of these meets the definition of competitive integrated employment?

Answer: A job paying at least minimum wage and comparable to coworkers without disabilities, working alongside people without disabilities, with the same chances to advance

Under WIOA, competitive integrated employment pays at least minimum wage and the customary wage for similar work, provides interaction with people without disabilities to the same degree as other employees, and offers comparable opportunities for advancement.

A job seeker wants to work in a busy restaurant kitchen. Their family worries it's too fast-paced and could lead to failure. Which principle supports respecting the job seeker's choice while planning supports?

Answer: Dignity of risk

Dignity of risk recognizes that people with disabilities have the right to take reasonable risks and learn from experience, as anyone does. Overprotecting someone denies them growth and self-determination. The professional's job is to plan supports, not to steer the person away from their choice.

What does 'informed choice' mean in employment support?

Answer: The person gets accessible, complete information about options and likely consequences, then makes their own decision

Informed choice, a requirement in vocational rehabilitation and a core APSE value, means the person directs the decision. Professionals provide clear, accessible information, experiences, and support so the person understands the options and trade-offs.

Which of these best describes person-centered planning tools such as PATH or MAPS?

Answer: Facilitated processes, directed by the person and the people they choose, that start from their strengths, dreams, and goals

PATH (Planning Alternative Tomorrows with Hope) and MAPS are person-centered planning processes. The person leads, supported by family, friends, and allies they choose. Planning focuses on their vision, strengths, and goals rather than their deficits or what services happen to be available.

Which statement reflects the 'presumption of employability' (zero exclusion) principle?

Answer: Anyone who wants to work can work in the community with the right job match and supports

Zero exclusion means nobody is screened out of employment services because they are judged 'not ready.' The question isn't whether someone can work but which job match and supports will help them succeed.