What distinguishes “sheltered employment” from “competitive employment”?

The distinction between sheltered employment and competitive employment is primarily characterized by the environment and circumstances in which individuals engage in work. Sheltered employment occurs in specialized settings designed specifically for individuals with disabilities. These environments often offer support and structured tasks that accommodate their specific needs, making it a more secure and supportive place of work compared to the open labor market.

In contrast, competitive employment refers to work that takes place in the general workforce, where individuals, regardless of disability status, compete for jobs on equal footing. This type of employment typically involves less specialized support and requires the individual to navigate the job market independently.

While other answer options suggest relevant concepts, they do not accurately capture the essence of what distinguishes sheltered employment from competitive employment in the context of vocational rehabilitation and support systems. Sheltered employment's focus on specialized environments makes it particularly tailored for individuals with disabilities, thus highlighting the significant difference between the two employment types.