Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation - Volume 57, issue 2

Authors: Herrick, Samantha J. | Lu, Weili | Oursler, Janice | Beninato, John | Gbadamosi, Sharon | Durante, Alison | Meyers, Elizabeth

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Direct Skills Teaching (DST) is a method for distilling a skill into digestible components for ease of teaching and learning of a new skill. Job retention is a complex phenomenon requiring numerous social competencies that include verbal and non-verbal fluency among others. Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often struggle with social communication and therefore are at a disadvantage in employment settings; even when otherwise qualified for the position. OBJECTIVE: This preliminary pilot study tested the feasibility of a DST group intervention to assist individuals with ASD with work-related soft skills, with a particular focus on informal …conversational skills. METHODS: Eight master’s level Rehabilitation Counseling students facilitated groups of adults with autism spectrum disorder seeking employment. Student facilitators followed the Conversing with Others manualized curriculum, designed to teach workplace based informal conversational soft skills. Participant feedback was sought both pre and post intervention, and student facilitators recorded their observations of each group session. RESULTS: The initial findings support the feasibility of soft-skills training for work-related conversational skills teaching for job seekers with ASD. The results also supported the need for significant adjustments to the intervention as well as any future studies of the small group intervention Conversing with Others. CONCLUSIONS: Workplace conversational skills can be facilitated in a small group setting. Master’s level counselors-in-training, were able to follow a manualized DST soft-skills small group. Show more

Keywords: Autism spectrum disorder, employment, soft skills, direct skills teaching, conversational skills

DOI: 10.3233/JVR-221203

Citation: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 57, no. 2, pp. 113-126, 2022

Authors: Crudden, Adele | Steverson, Anne

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: People with blindness and low vision (BLV) encounter many obstacles in retaining employment. Recent legislation has refocused vocational rehabilitation (VR) efforts toward job retention and career advancement among persons with disabilities. OBJECTIVE: We investigated the skills, including technology, and other issues that influenced job retention among persons with BLV to gain in-depth knowledge that is not typically available using survey methods or secondary data sources. METHODS: Intensive interviews using a semi-structured protocol were conducted with 11 persons with BLV and an employment history. Interviews were transcribed, summarized by major themes, and approved by participants. A …qualitative software program assisted in further coding, identifying additional themes, and organizing participants’ information. RESULTS: Participants recommended that others with BLV be proficient in assistive technology use, develop networks, and be persistent in achieving goals. Participants had positive and challenging experiences with technology, employers, and the VR service delivery system. Participants reported stress associated with their jobs and concern about their workplace efficiency. CONCLUSIONS: Results suggest that job retention continues to be problematic for persons with BLV. Service delivery systems should explore policies and services that support job retention. Further research concerning job stress, assistive technology, and workplace efficiency is needed. Show more

Keywords: Blindness and low vision, job retention, employment, assistive technology

DOI: 10.3233/JVR-221204

Citation: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 57, no. 2, pp. 127-140, 2022

Authors: Hasbollah, Nurul Nadia | Abu Bakar, Abdul Kadir | Shuib, Norley | Jamil, Ahmad Taufik | Razali, Salmi | Md Som, Suhaila

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Employment is crucial in rehabilitation of patients with schizophrenia. It may have positive effects on cognitive function, including working memory. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to look for evidence to confirm continuous job activities could maintain functional working memory in patients with schizophrenia. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study involving patients with schizophrenia enrolled in supported employment (SE) program. Informed consent was obtained. Socio-demographic, employment, and clinical data were acquired from interview and clinical notes. Mini International Neuropsychiatric Inventory (M.I.N.I) was used to confirm the diagnosis of schizophrenia. Working memory was evaluated using …Weschler Memory Scale Third Edition -Letter-Number Span and Spatial Span. RESULTS: 118 patients were recruited with a mean age of 43.76 years old (SD  = 8.96). Most were male, Malays, Muslims, single, and received at least secondary education. There was a significant association between working memory and employment outcome (χ2  = 20.835, p  < .001), and past work history (χ2  = 10.077, p  = 0.002). Multiple logistic regression indicated that the employment outcome (adjusted OR : 12.50; 95% CI: 2.55–61.21; p  = 0.002) and past work history (adjusted OR : 3.36; 95% CI: 1.05–10.70; p  = 0.041) were significant predictors of working memory among patients with schizophrenia in SE program. CONCLUSION: This study indicated that continuous job activities could maintain functional working memory in patients with schizophrenia. Show more

Keywords: Schizophrenia, supported employment, working memory, cognitive function, psychosocial rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/JVR-221205

Citation: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 57, no. 2, pp. 141-150, 2022

Authors: Turner, Alyna | De Wet, Theunis Jacobus | McMurray, Jade | Wrobel, Anna | Smith, Heather | Clissold, Ben | Mohebbi, Mohammadreza | Kneebone, Ian

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Rates of stroke in people of working age are increasing. Returning to work (RTW) after stroke is a key rehabilitation aspiration for younger stroke survivors. A pilot community-based Stay at Work Initiative (SAWI) was developed and delivered from March 2017 to December 2019. SAWI used a co-ordination based approach, covering rehabilitation and vocational recovery to support RTW in younger stroke survivors. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to conduct a feasibility evaluation of SAWI. METHODS: A mixed methods approach was taken considering quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data included employment, mood, anxiety and fatigue …outcomes at time of engagement with the service and at 6-months post-stroke. Qualitative data was collected on a sub-sample of SAWI clients who volunteered to participate in a semi-structured interview. RESULTS: Overall, there were 93 referrals to SAWI, with 42 clients completing an initial service meeting. Average working hours pre-stroke were high (mean 46.9, SD 22.0, range 5–100 hours/week). By 6 months post stroke, 71% (n  = 29 of 41) of SAWI clients were working. For those with 6-month questionnaire information (n  = 19), there was a significant reduction in cognitive fatigue, overall fatigue levels, and perceived impact of stroke on employment (medium effect sizes of r  = 0.36, 0.34 and 0.40 respectively). No significant difference was seen on measures of mood or anxiety from pre- to post-intervention. Qualitative interviews with six SAWI participants highlighted the importance of personalised support that addresses individual needs during the RTW journey. CONCLUSIONS: A significant number of eligible participants referred to SAWI can engage with the service. RTW is able to be assessed as are potential predictor variables. Seventy one percent of participants had RTW at 6 months post-stroke. Mood, self-efficacy, adjustment, and fatigue likely impact RTW. Qualitative interviews identified that SAWI’s personalised support, tailored to individual need, was valued. Show more

Keywords: Stroke, work, rehabilitation, feasibility studies, return to work

DOI: 10.3233/JVR-221206

Citation: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 57, no. 2, pp. 151-164, 2022

Authors: Cmar, Jennifer L. | McDonnall, Michele C.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work experience programs are a common element of work-based learning for youth with disabilities under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, but few studies have focused on the effectiveness of these programs for youth who are blind or have low vision (B/LV). OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of a vocational rehabilitation (VR) agency-sponsored summer work experience program on employment outcomes for transition-age youth with B/LV. METHODS: In this retrospective cohort study, we used propensity score matching to analyze de-identified case records obtained from a VR agency. Participants were 14 …to 24 years old at VR application and had a primary or secondary disability of blindness, visual impairment, or deaf-blindness. The matched sample (N  = 302) included 151 youth who participated in the program and 151 youth who did not participate. RESULTS: Summer work experience participants were more likely to obtain competitive employment at VR case closure than non-participants. Work hours and hourly earnings did not differ significantly between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: These findings support the association between paid community-based work experiences and future employment for B/LV youth who receive VR services. Show more

Keywords: Blind, low vision, work experience, vocational rehabilitation, employment

DOI: 10.3233/JVR-221207

Citation: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 57, no. 2, pp. 165-175, 2022

Authors: Godard, Rebecca | Hebl, Mikki | Nittrouer, Christine

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Much of the existing research on disability and disability-related workplace accommodations presume that disabilities are visible and commonly accepted. Yet, many disabilities are invisible and contested, or perceived as fake, low-severity/minor, and/or illegitimate. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this research is to investigate the effect of identity management strategies that individuals with contested disabilities might use when requesting accommodations in a workplace setting. METHODS: We used two electronic experiments to investigate the effect of identity management strategies on perceived fairness of accommodations and attributions about individuals requesting accommodations. Studies 1 and 2 used online surveys to …collect data from 117 and 184 working adults, respectively. RESULTS: Study 1 indicates that four invisible disabilities (chronic fatigue syndrome, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and chronic migraine) are viewed as significantly less legitimate than the visible disability paraplegia. In study 2, any form of disclosure of a contested disability (vs. no disclosure) resulted in higher perceived fairness and more positive attributions about the person requesting accommodations. There were minimal differences between the different identity management strategies tested. CONCLUSIONS: Workplaces should work to create spaces in which employees can disclose contested disabilities to managers and coworkers without fear of enhanced stigmatization. Show more

Keywords: Contested illness, disability, workplace accommodation, identity management

DOI: 10.3233/JVR-221208

Citation: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 57, no. 2, pp. 177-186, 2022

Authors: Jordán de Urríes, Francisco de Borja | Sánchez, Beatriz | Verdugo, Miguel Ángel

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) experience work ability decline through aging and disability (WADAD), conceptualized as the process of deterioration in work ability resulting from the interaction between disability and aging, which has a direct impact on their job. OBJECTIVE: There is a need to focus on how this decline can be detected and to identify the main areas and indicators of WADAD in people with IDD, in order to build a targeted prototype assessment tool to determine a prevention protocol that extends people’s positive working lives for as long as possible. METHODS: …We employed a literature review, Delphi panel, and working group through Modular Object-Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment (MOODLE). RESULTS: We created a tool, composed of 76 items, 6 dimensions, and 17 indicators, to assess WADAD in people with IDD. CONCLUSIONS: The indicators identified can be used to develop prevention and/or intervention protocols for WADAD and to produce guidance for the transition toward retirement, specifically for people with IDD. This tool helps extend the satisfying working lives— with support— of people with IDD, promoting social inclusion and participation as workers and not as pensioners. Show more

Keywords: Aging, retirement, work ability decline, disability, job deterioration, assessment, intellectual and developmental disabilities

DOI: 10.3233/JVR-221209

Citation: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 57, no. 2, pp. 187-195, 2022

Authors: Lu, Weili | Oursler, Janice | Herrick, Samantha J. | Gao, Ni | Beninato, John | Minor, Tameika | Franco, Samantha | Santiago, Gabriela | Mihaita, Tatiana | Hauck, Emmaleigh

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: People with neurodevelopmental disorders often face significant challenges to finding and keeping employment including engaging in a job interview. Successfully navigating a job interview is a complex and essential stage to finding employment and requires skillful behaviors. OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to determine the feasibility of the Presenting Qualifications intervention for people with neurodevelopmental disorders. METHODS: Direct skills teaching (DST) is a researched method that can be utilized to help people learn a new skill. The current study implemented a multi-session, group based work-related soft skills intervention (“Presenting Qualifications”) for 76 people with various neurodevelopmental …disorders via a DST approach. RESULTS: Participants reported increased perceived interview preparedness from pre to post intervention. Participants also reported satisfaction with the intervention. CONCLUSIONS: This suggests soft skills interventions delivered in group settings can be successfully implemented among people with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Implications of the findings and future research directions are discussed. Show more

Keywords: Neurodevelopmental disorders, employment, direct skills teaching, interview skills

DOI: 10.3233/JVR-221210

Citation: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 57, no. 2, pp. 197-206, 2022