Vocational Rehabilitation Outcomes for Persons with Psychiatric Disabilities

Issue title: Psychiatric Impairment

Subtitle: An Update

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Bond, Gary R.^; | McDonel, Elizabeth C.

Affiliations: Indiana University-Purdue University at Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana

Note: [] Preparation of this paper was supported in part by Research Scientist Development Award MH 00842-01 from the National Institute of Mental Health to the first author. We thank Laura Dietzen, Deirdre Levstek, and Michelle Pensec for their helpful suggestions. Address correspondence to Gary R. Bond, Department of Psychology, Indiana University-Purdue University at Indianapolis, 1125 East 38th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46205-2810.

Abstract: The literature on employment outcomes for persons with severe mental illness is updated, suggesting seven problem areas needing research attention. Basic questions such as the availability of vocational programs and their efficacy have been incompletely answered. Conceptual and methodological problems relating to sample definition, program implementation, and measurement of outcome continue to impede comparison between studies. The supported employment movement has helped rejuvenate interest and optimism in the vocational potential of persons with severe mental illness, while posing new research questions. A process perspective is offered as one framework for research.

DOI: 10.3233/JVR-1991-1303

Journal: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 1, no. 3, pp. 9-20, 1991