Affiliations: Trimbos Institute (Netherlands Institute of Mental
Health and Addiction), Utrecht, The Netherlands | Academic Medical Centre (AMC), University of
Amsterdam, The Netherlands | Department of Clinical Psychology, Vrije Universiteit,
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Harry W.C. Michon, Trimbos
Institute, P.O. Box 725, 3500 AS Utrecht, The Netherlands. Tel.: +31 30 2959
217/297 1100; Fax: +31 30 297 1111; E-mail: hmichon@trimbos.nl
Abstract: The aim of this study is to understand the central focuses of work
assessment in psychiatric vocational rehabilitation (PVR). Employing the
RAND/UCLA panel method and multiple linear regressions, we analyzed the
insights of experienced professionals to identify which client characteristics
are key to the successful completion of vocational rehabilitation programs,
aimed at integration into competitive jobs. It was found that successful job
finding was predicted most strongly by better functioning in terms of generic
work performance, followed by less severe psychiatric symptoms, better
self-insight, a perceived need for change, and an ability to cope with work
pressure. Basic social functioning, work history and acceptance of guidance
were not identified as predictors. A next step would be empirical research in
practice settings, systematically gauging the relative importance of the
predictors identified here and elsewhere, as well as testing how useful it
could be to base assessment in PVR on a crucial set of personal-level
characteristics.
