Social exchange theory tenets and the employment of persons with disabilities in the Western Cape, South Africa.

Background: Employment of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in South Africa's public sector remains persistently low despite progressive legislative frameworks. This reflects enduring structural, organisational and attitudinal barriers that limit meaningful inclusion, particularly at a provincial level. Compliance-driven approaches have proven insufficient in addressing the organisational dynamics shaping inclusion. This study is grounded in the social model of disability and applies social exchange theory (SET) to examine how perceptions of costs, benefits and reciprocity influence employment decisions. Objectives: This study applied SET to: (1) understand perceived costs/benefits of employing PWDs; (2) explore the role of social structures/actors; (3) propose SET-informed strategies to enhance equity. Method: A qualitative study, situated within the transformative paradigm and using a case study design, was conducted in the Western Cape provincial public service. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 10 senior officials and analysed thematically using key SET principles. Results: Three interrelated themes emerged: the importance of enabling structures and actors, the role of reinforcement in sustaining inclusive practices, and the significance of reciprocal professional relationships. Findings indicate that inclusion is constrained by perceived costs and limited institutional support, but can be strengthened through structural investment, incentive mechanisms and relational engagement. Conclusion: Social exchange theory provides a robust framework for reconceptualising PWD employment as a mutually beneficial social exchange, guiding more sustainable, relational inclusion strategies. Contribution: The study advances SET as a practical lens for designing interventions that address both structural and relational barriers to disability inclusion.