Affiliations: Joint Research Programs in Psychiatric Rehabilitation
at the Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL, USA | Fayette Companies, Chicago, IL, USA
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Jonathon Larson, Joint Research
Programs in Psychiatric Rehabilitation at Illinois Institute of Technology,
3424 S. State, First Floor, Chicago, IL 60616, USA. Tel.: +1 312 567 6752; Fax:
+1 312 567 6753; E-mail: larsonjon@iit.edu
Abstract: The goal of this qualitative study was to explore and present the
perspectives of unemployed and employed individuals with psychiatric
disabilities on the benefits and costs of work. The participants in this study
were enrolled in a supported employment program that provided assistance in
weighing the pros and cons of work, locating employment based on personal
choice, and maintaining competitive jobs through unlimited support. At the
12th month of participation in the job program, 89
people completed the Stages of Change Interview for Seeking Competitive
Employment. For 59 unemployed participants, results suggested 47 distinct
themes that were categorized into 5 conceptual frameworks: financial,
emotional, cognitive, behavioral, and interpersonal. For 30 employed
participants, results suggested 25 distinct themes that were categorized into
the same 5 conceptual frameworks. Implications for future research will be
discussed.
Keywords: Serious mental illness, psychiatric disabilities, supported employment, stages of change, benefits and costs of work
