2418 - Workshop on Disability Measures and Data

Session Submission Type: Workshop

Description

This workshop focuses on quantitative measures of disability available in American national data. Its goals are to further interest in, and capability for, disability-specific research as well as to spur research which includes disability as one often ignored component of intersectionality. In order to accomplish these goals, the workshop will differentiate among disability measures used in national federal surveys to help researchers to pick the best measures for their particular questions. We will review the major national federal surveys that include measures of disability, highlight the kinds of questions and answer categories and relate the questions to the WHO International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health in order to differentiate their role in the disability process. We will also evaluate the measures within the framework of intersectionality in order to foster inclusion of disability as part of intersectionality research.

Agenda:
1. Current conceptualization and operationalization of disability: Medical Conditions; Impairments; Physical and Social Functioning; Employment and/or Participation
2. How do these various measures interact with the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health
3. Review of major Federal surveys: American Community Survey; CPS; NHIS; MEPS;
a. Questions and answer categories in the various Federal Surveys – what is captured what is not captured
b. Empirical questions that can and cannot be addressed
c. Intersectionality and its relationship with disability
d. Variables of interest to intersectionality topic
4. At least ½ hour will be spent discussing individual’s data needs and which question sets best address inclusion of the disabled population.

Sub Unit

• Workshops / Policy and Research Workshop

Session Organizer

• Barbara M. Altman, Disability Statistics Consultant

Co-Leader

• Sharon N. Barnartt, Gallaudet University