The report examines current labor market statistics and makes projections regarding the types of jobs available in the future for handicapped workers. It is projected that 3 million disabled persons could be put to work before the end of the 1980's. An initial chapter considers difficulties in making projections and notes the positive potential of technology. Trends are then examined which are considered unlikely to come to pass, including massive employment for disabled persons in the computer industry, the reindustrialization of America, and the obsolescence of liberal arts as a course of study. The changing labor market is analyzed, and five areas of opportunity (general services, special services, sales, information services, and entrepreneurship) are described in which people with severe physical, sensory, and mental disabilities are most likely to find and keep jobs. Personal characteristics, such as tolerance for routine, educational attainment, and inner vs. other-directedness, are considered in terms of the five areas of opportunity. The final chapter describes steps for promoting success of disabled persons in private employment. Cooperation between disabled persons themselves, service agencies, other government agencies, and employers is stressed. (CL)

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