Disability disclosure as an impression management technique used in the workplace: A grounded theory investigation.

Background: In order to overcome obstacles to entry and inclusion in the workplace, individuals with disabilities engage in various impression management strategies to present themselves as the socially acceptable 'ideal employee.'

Objective: This study expands on previous disclosure research by asking individuals with disabilities to share their experiences of identity management and workplace challenges.

Methods: We leveraged qualitative research techniques to explore the reciprocal impact of workplace treatment and disclosure.

Results: Impression management emerged as an especially salient aspect of participants' disclosure decisions, and participants used an array of impression management tactics. Some employees with disabilities described positive experiences; however, we also learned that impression management can present unique challenges that may outweigh potential benefits.

Conclusion: Our findings affirm that managing the image we project can be remarkably complicated and effortful when having a disability. This paper concludes with implementation recommendations for vocational rehabilitation counselors and human resource practitioners.