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Introduction This article explored the experiences of eight persons with albinism in Puerto Rico in their quest for educational, social, and employment opportunities. Methods Volunteers participated in structured interviews that yielded the information presented in this article. Results Four main areas were identified that best described the stories of these participants: knowledge of and attitudes toward albinism, resilience and other supports, the challenges of albinism, and current needs. Discussion It is clear from the participants' stories that physical attributes are still a prime factor in determining a variety of interactions for persons with albinism, many with potential effects on quality of life. Implications for practitioners This article contributes to the literature documenting psychosocial aspects of the albinism condition. It provides evidence that environmental barriers and attitudes generally affect interactions with persons with albinism, knowledge that can be used by professionals who work with individuals with albinism.

For years rehabilitation researchers have been investigating variables related to the employment outcomes of people with disabilities. The result has been hundreds of studies with varying results. The purpose of this study was to review and compile the results of nearly a quarter century of rehabilitation research examining the employment outcomes of people with disabilities. One hundred and eighteen published studies were selected that investigated nearly 200 independent variables in relation to employment outcomes of persons with disabilities. Studies were classified into eight non-exclusive categories of independent variable groupings. that were labeled (1) Client (consumer); (2) Counselor; (3) MedicalIJunctional; (4) Work Environment; (5) Measures; (6) Program Interventions; (7) Services; and, (8) Financial. A review and compilation of these results, in addition to a discussion of implications, recommendations, and limitations is provided within the context of the need for evidenced-based practice in rehabilitation counseling and knowledge translation approaches in rehabilitation research.

As a follow up to previous studies, this article explores the role of personal and service characteristics and Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agency type on the attainment of employment outcomes of persons with visual impairments. Results of the stepwise regression analysis indicated that the variables of age, education, and gender best predicted the employment outcomes of these consumers with visual impairments. Although statistically significant, agency type did not affect the income of VR consumers with visual impairments. Results suggested that agencies exclusively for persons with visual impairments have similar rates of success as general VR agencies.

Through electronic and manual searches, the authors identified research articles on albinism that covered a period of more than 20 years. Results: People with albinism were reported to experience many physical, mental/emotional, and social challenges. Data from the research literature suggest that most individuals with albinism have average cognitive abilities and achievement skills. Personal adaptation studies were mixed and indicated that many of these individuals struggle with the social impact of visible differences associated with the albinism condition. Public attitudes toward albinism reflected a general lack of information and a related degree of negativism. Conclusions: The authors conclude that available studies lack the methodological soundness to produce findings that lead to better understanding of this phenomenon. Moreover, certain contextual variables, such as culture, socioeconomic level, and severity of disability, have been overlooked and need to be incorporated in subsequent research on factors impacting the adaptation of individuals with albinism. Implications for rehabilitation research and practice are discussed.