A behavioral intervention to improve work performance in schizophrenia: Work behavior inventory feedback

Issue title: Psychiatric Rehabilitation

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Bell, Morris^; | Lysaker, Paul^; | Bryson, Gary^;

Affiliations: VA Connecticut HealthCare System, West Haven, CT, USA | Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA | VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN, USA | Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA

Note: [] Address for correspondence: Morris Bell, Ph.D., Psychology Service, 116B, VACHS, 950 Campbell Ave, West Haven, CT 06516, USA. Tel.: +1 203 932 5711, Ext 2281; Fax: +1 203 937 4883; E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract: Objective: Situational assessments of work performance can be used repeatedly to measure progress in work rehabilitation and used for feedback and goal setting. Design: Sixty-three people with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder participating in a 6-month paid work program were randomly assigned to receive a behavioral intervention utilizing work performance feedback and goal setting or to receive usual support services. Results: Results showed that those receiving the behavioral intervention (BI) had significantly greater improvement on the WBI subscales overall and specifically on Social Skills, Personal Presentation, and Cooperativeness. Those in BI also worked significantly longer, 36% more hours and 22% more weeks. Additionally, those in BI showed a trend toward greater improvements on measures of motivation, sense of purpose, and enjoyment in life. Conclusions: Results indicate that BI can improve work performance, particularly for interpersonal behaviors that are less likely to be addressed by work supervisors, increase job retention, and may enhance feelings of motivation, sense of purpose and enjoyment in life.

Keywords: situational assessment, job retention, behavioral intervention, psychiatric disabilities

Journal: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 18, no. 1, pp. 43-50, 2003