Career Choice and Family Expectations of Individuals With Visual Impairments in Turkey: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Introduction: This study aimed to explore the career choice of individuals with blindness or low vision (i.e., visual impairments) and their experiences with the expectations of their families. In societies where family is important, family members can influence the career choices of individuals with visual impairments. Method: This study was carried out in 2022. The online interview method was chosen to collect data due to the difficulties in conducting face-to-face interviews during the COVID-19 pandemic. The participants were 18 adults with visual impairments. Their ages ranged from 22 to 36 years. Participants were asked about the role of their families in their career choices. They were also asked about their expectations from effective career counseling. The researcher used deductive thematic analysis. Results: Four themes emerged from these data: (a) work not school, (b) guaranteed jobs are good enough, (c) daughters should marry, and (d) discrepancies in expectations based on household income. Discussion: As in many low- and middle-income countries, people with visual impairments in Turkey are discouraged from continuing their education. With the exception of affluent families, participants were generally directed to guaranteed or low-skill jobs. Gender stereotypes of families were a career barrier for women with visual impairments. Implications for Practitioners: Because of the essential role played by family members of people with visual impairments in Turkey, career counselors should work with families for effective practice. It is also essential for career counselors to inform families about the education and employment rights of individuals with visual impairments.