In comparing this group with able bodied persons, it is most interesting to note that the cerebral palsied are doing as varied work as do able bodied. Another most significant and encouraging fact that the analysis of these placements shows is that employed cerebral palsied people can hold their jobs against competition. As a matter of fact, 13 of them had increased their earnings through raises, promotions, or increased earnings from their own businesses which they have developed. Seventeen of those placed had no work experience whatever prior to placement and the experience of the others was sketchy at best. The average weekly starting wage for those who are working is approximately $44 or an annual gross of $105,505.40. The lowest salary is $25 on a part-time job. The highest is $75 paid to an administrative assistant. The age average is 28.3, ranging from 18 to 48. Eight of the fifty-two who were employed were not retained in their jobs. Four of these were dropped because they were too slow due to their cerebral palsy condition but the other four were dropped because their emotional disturbances interfered with their performance-not the cerebral palsy. This is another indication of the great need for more adequate psychiatric services, 46293-54-pt. 2-18 since there is evidence that psychiatric problems can be just as limiting as cerebral palsy. It might be expected that only the mildest cases of cerebral palsy would have been placed. However, this is not the case. In fact, 13 people were classified as "severe", the same number are "moderate", and the balance "mild" It would seem, therefore, that the degree of involvement is not the controlling factor in the placement of the cerebral palsied. On the other hand the important factor appears to be one that cannot be delineated on a chart, but is the key to successful placement, and that is the early training by the parents of the child to fend for itself to the greatest possible degree. The figures and chart which follow will show totals and indicate the individual data in each placement. Occupations as listed on the chart fall into the following classifications: Skilled. Semiskilled.... Unskilled Total_ The average age is 28.3 ranging from 18 to 48. 10 2 The degree of involvement of the fifty-two persons is classified as follows: It would appear that the degree of involvement has comparatively little to do with the ability to perform on a job provided a very selective placement is accomplished. The important factor is one which cannot be delineated on a chart but has to do with early psychological preparation for meeting life as it is. The following tables graphically summarize the preceding text. |