Multiple Sclerosis and Academic Work: Socio-Spatial Strategies Adopted to Maintain Employment
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Medical Update Memo
May 11, 2009
SUMMARY
Negotiating multiple sclerosis in the academic workplace is a complex process that necessitates the adoption of socio-spatial strategies so that the occupational role of paid worker can be maintained. Journal of Occupational Science April 2009 16 (1) 25-31.
DETAILS
Maintaining paid work and the occupational identity it entails after onset of multiple sclerosis is important and beneficial. Research consistently shows that employees with multiple sclerosis who are more highly educated and in positions with greater occupational prestige are more likely to remain in the workforce. Canadian researchers report on what is it about the specific workplaces in which such workers are employed that facilitates these employment outcomes. Results of an exploratory pilot study are reported.
The pilot described three objectives: (1) investigate how academics with multiple sclerosis negotiate workplace expectations at Canadian universities so that they can maintain participation in paid labour and quality workplace life; (2) explore how systematic barriers and enablers inherent in academic workplaces shape the experiences of these academics; and (3) test the feasibility of developing a program of research to further explore these objectives (e.g.,ar e potential participants interested in being interviewed, is it possible to recruit interviewees?) 10 Canadian academics with multiple sclerosis were surveyed using a semi-structured interview. Respondents' adoption of socio-spatial strategies related to travel, spatio-temporal routines, and social networks was central to maintaining a place in the academic workforce. Factors such as flexibility, access to resources, and symptom fluctuation enabled these strategies. The findings show that the relationships between place and occupation are complex in that multiple physical and social spaces and also roles are invoked in maintaining a particular occupational identity.
A larger study is underway. This study is funded by the Social Sciences & Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) and led by researchers at Simon Fraser University, Lakehead University, and the University of Winnipeg .
National Research and Programs
Offert en français.
Disclaimer
The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada is an independent, voluntary health
agency and does not approve, endorse or recommend any specific product or therapy,
but provides information to assist individuals in making their own decisions.
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