International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) | Volume VI, Issue VIII, August 2022 | ISSN 2454–6186
Experiences of Managers Upon Handling Neurodiverse Employees
Charmaine Gie B. Galeza1, Icey Caxandra L. Quiseo2, Mikaela Dominique A. Salabit3, John Iverson B. Trinidad4,
Glenn Ian M. Vetonio5, Sheryl R. Morales6
1,2, 3, 4, 5Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Major in Human Resource Management & Polytechnic University of the Philippines – Quezon City, Philippines
6Research Management Office, Polytechnic University of the Philippines – Quezon City, Philippines – (Thesis Adviser)
Abstract: The intent of this research is to unfold managers’ experiences in handling neurodiverse employees. Managers who help their employees succeed in the organization have tremendous accomplishments, but among all the tasks that manager must perform, managing people is by far the most challenging as each employee is different, unforeseen, and driven by the own set of forces. Proponents used a qualitative research method specifically narrative inquiry and conducted an in-depth interview with semi-structured questions. The following themes revealed in this study are (1) manager’s knowledge and involvement in neurodivergent employees at work, (2) acknowledging the challenges faced by the managers in handling neurodiverse employees, (3) strategies of managers in dealing with neurodivergent employees, and (4) the influence of manager’s positive approach in the welfare of neurodiverse employees. Therefore, it is concluded that managers have little to no challenges in handling neurodiverse employees. Moreover, these types of employees are above average people in terms of performance but lack emotional control that leads to anger and frustration. In the perspective of the following participants, there is no perfect strategy in handling neurodiverse employees. Managers must be diversified and versatile in handling these types of employees and use strategies that fit in with their needs. This study was assessed and completed that allows managers, especially the human resource management, to get an informative approach in neurodiverse employees.
Keywords: strategies/approaches, neurodiversity, leadership, workplace, condition
I. INTRODUCTION
There are individuals who believe that working is essential to one’s life. It brings people meaning and a place to belong as well as having to contribute to society by putting their abilities and talents to service. The World Health Organization (WHO) said that being employed gives stability, social identity and social contact, regular activity, and purpose that are considered as vital factors in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. However, being employed alone does not guarantee success within the workplace and this is when the role of a manager comes in since it is their responsibility to lead their employees. They prioritize tasks, provide motivation, and supply job opportunities for their employees to thrive (Purcel, 2021).