Affiliations: [a] Department of Occupational Therapy, Prosthetics and Orthotics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo and Akershus University College of Applied Science, Oslo, Norway
| [b] Presenter, Stavanger, Norway
| [c] Department of Health Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stavanger, Stavanger, Norway
Correspondence:
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Address for correspondence: Lisebet Skeie Skarpaas, Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo and Akershus University College of Applied Science, Postboks 4, St. Olavs plass, N-0130 Oslo, Norway. Tel.: +47 22 45 23 77/+47 971 63 337; E-mail: [email protected].
Abstract: BACKGROUND:Many people confronting mental health problems are excluded from participation in paid work. Supervisor engagement is essential for successful job placement. OBJECTIVE:To elicit supervisor perspectives on the challenges involved in fostering integration to support individuals with mental health problems (trainees) in their job placement at ordinary companies. METHODS:Explorative, qualitative designed study with a phenomenological approach, based on semi-structured interviews with 15 supervisors involved in job placements for a total of 105 trainees (mean 7, min-max. 1–30, SD 8). Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. RESULTS:Superviors experience two interrelated dilemmas concerning knowledge of the trainee and degree of preferential treatment. Challenges to obtaining successful integration were; motivational: 1) Supervisors previous experience with trainees encourages future engagement, 2) Developing a realistic picture of the situation, and 3) Disclosure and knowledge of mental health problems, and continuity challenges: 4) Sustaining trainee cooperation throughout the placement process, 5) Building and maintaining a good relationship between supervisor and trainee, and 6) Ensuring continuous cooperation with the social security system and other stakeholders. CONCLUSIONS:Supervisors experience relational dilemmas regarding pre-judgment, privacy and equality. Job placement seem to be maximized when the stakeholders are motivated and recognize that cooperation must be a continuous process.
Keywords: Work disability prevention, supported employment, sick leave, vocational rehabilitation, return to work
