Exploring the job resources experienced by employees with hearing impairment in South Africa

Abstract

Orientation: The United Nations Agenda of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) number 8, and specifically target 8.5, highlights the employment of people with disabilities (PWD). The current study sheds light on job characteristics that employees with hearing impairments (EwHIs) experience as job resources.

Research purpose: This study aimed to explore the aspects that EwHIs might regard as job resources within the South African context.

Motivation for the study: The paucity of research in South Africa on disability matters in the workplace, and EwHIs in particular, served as motivation for this study.

Research approach/design and method: This study used an exploratory, qualitative research approach and the social constructivism paradigm to explore the job resources of EwHIs in South Africa. In addition, a descriptive phenomenological design was used to deeply understand the participants’ lived experiences. Participants (N = 14) were identified with a purposive sampling technique and data were collected with open-ended, deaf-friendly questionnaires. Inductive qualitative content analysis was used to analyse the data.

Main findings: Firstly, EwHIs learn from subordinates and work associates. Secondly, constructive social affiliation, learning and challenges seem to motivate EwHIs. Lastly, task accomplishment is facilitated by adequate communication, orientation and assistance.

Practical/managerial implications: The findings of the current study have implications for policy, practice and decision-making. Broadly stated, the learning, motivation and task completion of EwHIs are functions of social integration and effective communication in the workplace.

Contribution/value-add: This study is the first of its kind in South Africa and provides insight into job characteristics that EwHIs regard as job resources.