A Literature Review of Vocational Rehabilitation Acceptance and Explaining Bias In the Rehabilitation Process

Abstract

The United States is transitioning into the new millennium with actual and projected growth in racial and ethnic minority populations. However, racial minority customers remain underrepresented among those receiving services in vocational rehabilitation. Moreover, there is a differential rate of acceptance for customers from racial and ethnic minority and female populations and those who are White (non-Hispanic). While we recognize that the types of service received and severity of disability (and other variables), for example, are important variables to consider when examining VR Ineligibility discrepancies, studies that used these specific variables in relation to VR acceptance were scarce. This article examines the findings of past researchers who have explored the reasons for discrepancies within the vocational rehabilitation (VR) system. Future research and considerations for VR counselors are discussed.