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Physical Disability in the Workplace: A Comprehensive Review and Unifying Framework

Wyatt Lee et al.

Journal of Management2026https://doi.org/10.1177/01492063251406535article
FT50AJG 4*ABDC A*
Weight
0.41

Abstract

In the United States, more than a quarter of the working-age population experiences physical disabilities that shape workplace participation and career outcomes. Drawing on 168 articles, we synthesize the management literature to develop a unifying framework of focal mechanisms, workplace outcomes, and boundary conditions. In doing so, we offer a clear definition of physical disability, long absent from management research. We also highlight the fragmented theoretical and methodological landscape, in which most studies aggregate disability types, overlooking critical heterogeneity. Our review charts a path forward by identifying key gaps, outlining directions for future scholarship, and emphasizing the need for stronger theoretical grounding and methodological rigor. Finally, we discuss implications for policy and practice, underscoring how greater inclusion of persons with physical disabilities can advance various workplace outcomes.

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https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1177/01492063251406535

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@article{wyatt2026,
  title        = {{Physical Disability in the Workplace: A Comprehensive Review and Unifying Framework}},
  author       = {Wyatt Lee et al.},
  journal      = {Journal of Management},
  year         = {2026},
  doi          = {https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1177/01492063251406535},
}

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Physical Disability in the Workplace: A Comprehensive Review and Unifying Framework

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Evidence weight

0.41

Balanced mode · F 0.40 / M 0.15 / V 0.05 / R 0.40

F · citation impact0.25 × 0.4 = 0.10
M · momentum0.55 × 0.15 = 0.08
V · venue signal0.50 × 0.05 = 0.03
R · text relevance †0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20

† Text relevance is estimated at 0.50 on the detail page — for your query’s actual relevance score, open this paper from a search result.