Intervention options: Participation in work activities for people with schizophrenia

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Voit, Susan

Affiliations: Boston University, Sargent College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Department of Occupational Therapy, Boston, MA, USA

Note: [] 33 Bridges Avenue, Newtonville, MA 02460, USA. Tel.: +1 617 243 0082; E-mail: svoit@mediaone.net

Abstract: Vocational rehabilitation is a method by which people with disabilities are able to learn skills and receive supports that are necessary to take part in work activities. Vocational rehabilitation interventions can be used in a wide variety of settings with many different populations of people with disabilities, including those with schizophrenia. However, there is little available research to help guide clinicians to identify which vocational rehabilitation intervention methods may be the most effective for their clients. {\it Objectives:} The purpose of this paper is to identify what is the best practice for obtaining and maintaining participation in work activities for people with schizophrenia. {\it Study design:} This paper reviewed sixteen previously conducted studies (seven specific solely to schizophrenia) to identify which vocational rehabilitation method is the best practice to aid those with schizophrenia to obtain and maintain participation in work activities. {\it Results:} The reviewed literature suggests that there are a variety of vocational rehabilitation intervention methods that may be effective treatment interventions. The effective interventions were those programs that had a client-centered approach and enabled the client to play an active role in his/her vocational rehabilitation. {\it Conclusion:} With this study review, clinicians will be able to examine a variety of successful client-centered vocational rehabilitation methods that may aid in helping their clients with schizophrenia to obtain and maintain participation in work activities.

Keywords: rehabilitation, psychiatric disability, vocational rehabilitation, mental illness

Journal: Work, vol. 16, no. 2, pp. 139-151, 2001