Hiring and Workplace Employment: Perceived Aesthetic Biases by Individuals with Physical Disabilities

This study examines experiences with aesthetic bias as perceived by individuals with physical disabilities (i.e., vision, hearing, orthopedic/mobility). We used the concept of aesthetic bias to guide our quantitative and qualitative data analysis. A quantitative Needs Assessment Survey (NAS) gathered demographic information, degree of appearance management behavior and assessed participants' perspectives on their experience with aesthetic bias during the interviewing process and in the workplace environment. In addition, we conducted interviews with 12 participants that assessed their experiences with aesthetic biases. The results revealed four themes: appearance creditability, concealing or revealing the disability, inconsistent feedback from others, and disability awareness. The findings add value to the extant research and the community and can be incorporated into workshops and education sessions on aesthetic bias and disability.