Abstract
The purpose of this study is twofold, as follows : (1) to clarify the importance of natural support of co-worker as a factor that has made an extended job retention of an intellectually disabled employee possible ; and (2) to explore better and more specific ways to realize natural support. Above all, the study is intended to ensure the importance of the "key person" of natural support. The study examined the relationship between Mr. A, who was severely intellectually disabled but was successfully employed for more than five years and his Co-worker M, who extended his (psychological and other forms of) support throughout Mr. A's tenure at a small private company. An analysis of the interview data reveals the following findings : (1) Continuation of the relationship between these two people was possible because of the interaction between "attachment" of the supporter (Co-worker M) and "competence" of the supported employee (Mr. A) ; (2) the relationship between these two people needed the supportive environments, including their employer, their families, the staff of Mr. A's facility, and governmental systems ; and (3) an extended job retention by people who are severely intellectually disabled is likely to promote their greater social independence.
