Two case studies examined the efficacy of two social enhancement procedures--individual social skills training (SST) and co-worker intervention for two employees with dual sensory impairment who were working in competitive employment settings but who were socially isolated from contact with their nondisabled co-workers. A variety of measures, including direct behavioral observations and social validation ratings, examined social interaction and the formation of social networks in the workplace. Results showed that the number and duration of social interactions improved with each of the social enhancement programs. Social validation data and anecdotal reports indicated that the employees with disabilities became more socially competent, interactive, and included in the social network of the workplace. Interestingly, SST followed by co-worker training resulted in greater increases in social responding as compared to co-worker training followed by SST.

Case study examples highlight several strategies used by Bay Area Personnel Systems, a model demonstration project, to ensure the inclusion of persons with dual sensory impairments and other multiple disabilities in integrated community employment. Heterogeneous group placement, job restructuring, use of natural support, volunteerism, and social skills training are practices perceived to be particularly critical in ensuring integrated work for people with dual sensory impairment.