This paper examines the identity management challenges faced by deaf workers in the gig economy. The transient nature of gig work, minimal communication requirements, and technological assistance allow deaf workers to conceal their disability during interactions with customers. The decision to disclose or conceal a disability, along with the outcomes of such disclosure, represents an emerging and underexplored issue. To address this issue, we conducted a multistudy investigation. In Study 1, we interviewed 32 deaf riders about their work experiences and identity management strategies. In Study 2, we developed a theoretical model to examine the motivational mechanisms of the disclosure behaviors and the associated outcomes. Our findings highlighted the mediating roles of value-expressive and instrumental motives, as well as accomplishment, status, and communion strivings. Results further revealed that disclosure motivations and behaviors sequentially mediated the relationship between self-identity and work outcomes. These insights underscore the complexity of identity management for deaf gig workers and offer pathways for future research that focuses on disability and the future of work.
