Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation - Volume 53, issue 2

Authors: Mazzotti, Valerie L. | Kittelman, Angus | Bromley, Katherine W. | Hirano, Kara A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work-based learning experiences provide secondary students meaningful opportunities to acquire skills needed for long-term employment. Students with disabilities engaging in problem behaviors on the job are vulnerable to having employment opportunities reduced or terminated. One way to develop appropriate work-based behaviors that may promote long-term, competitive integrated employment is to address problem behaviors in high school to ensure students enter the workforce career ready. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a function-based, self-determined multi-component intervention on the reduction of work-based problem behaviors for secondary youth with disabilities. METHODS: This …study used a single-case A-B-A-B withdrawal design to examine the effects of the intervention on two student participants’ off-task, work-based problem behaviors. RESULTS: Based on visual analysis of graphed data, results indicated a functional relation between the function-based, self-determined multi-component intervention and decrease in off-task, work-based problem behaviors for each student participant. The intervention was rated as socially valid by students and job coaches. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides empirical evidence to support implementation of using FBAs and self-determination interventions in combination during work-based learning experiences to decrease work-based problem behaviors for secondary students with disabilities. Limitations and implications for future research and practice are discussed. Show more

Keywords: Work-based learning, FBA, function-based, single-case research, secondary, off-task behaviors, employment, job coaching, self-determination, students with disabilities

DOI: 10.3233/JVR-201092

Citation: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 53, no. 2, pp. 145-158, 2020

Authors: Chan, Fong | Rumrill, Phillip | Wehman, Paul | Iwanaga, Kanako | Wu, Jia-Rung | Rumrill, Stuart | Chen, Xiangli | Lee, Beatrice

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Gainful employment has many psychological, social, and financial benefits. Helping young adults with traumatic brain injury (TBI) who have academic potential to attend college will increase their chances of finding a good job with benefits that can pave the way for a great career and a middle-class life. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of college and university training on employment outcomes and earnings of young adults with TBI. METHODS: We conducted a non-experimental causal comparative study using propensity score matching to create a treatment (n  = 278) and a …comparison group (n  = 278) using the RSA-911 data. RESULTS: Results demonstrated that young adults with TBI who received college or university training have better employment and earning outcomes than young adults without college or university training. CONCLUSIONS: Implications for state vocational rehabilitation counsellors are discussed. Show more

Keywords: Traumatic brain injury, training, employment

DOI: 10.3233/JVR-201093

Citation: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 53, no. 2, pp. 159-166, 2020

Authors: Albright, Jordan | Kulok, Sydney | Scarpa, Angela

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Understanding factors that impact the successful employment of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is critical to improving outcomes, including quality of life. Despite employers being critical contributors to the hiring process, the perspectives of these stakeholders have yet to be examined in the literature. OBJECTIVE: To understand: 1) employers’ perspectives on factors that influence the decision to hire an individual with ASD, 2) employers’ needs in order to hire and integrate an employee with ASD into the workplace, and 3) the skills employers perceive as important to workplace success. METHODS: Interviews were conducted with …13 employers from businesses in the United States to understand their perspectives related to the hiring and employment of individuals with ASD. Qualitative data were analyzed using a data-driven thematic approach. RESULTS: Employers identified several benefits to hiring individuals with ASD, including unique individual skills and broader workplace benefits. Employers also expressed concerns related to how ASD symptomology may negatively impact the workplace. Employers want to understand their employees and want to identify appropriate workplace accommodations in order to integrate an employee with ASD into the workplace. Finally, employers emphasized the importance of both “soft” and “hard” skills to workplace success. CONCLUSION: Although employers expressed concerns, these concerns can be addressed through employee accommodations, vocational rehabilitation programs, and disability diversity trainings. Limitations and future directions of this area of research are also addressed. Show more

Keywords: Autism, employment, vocational rehabilitation training, workplace diversity trainings

DOI: 10.3233/JVR-201094

Citation: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 53, no. 2, pp. 167-182, 2020

Authors: Bezyak, Jill | Moser, Erin | Iwanaga, Kanako | Wu, Jia-Rung | Chen, Xiangli | Chan, Fong

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In order to promote equal opportunity in employment, rehabilitation researchers implement demand-side employment research to increase the presence of employees with disabilities in the workplace. Previous research indicates the inclusion of people with disabilities in an organization’s diversity and inclusion policies and procedures is strongly associated with employment of people with disabilities. Despite the potential advantages of disability inclusion, there is limited evidence to evaluate employers’ perception about the importance of disability inclusion strategies. OBJECTIVE: The current study examined the relative importance of six common disability inclusion strategies and the relationship between each of these strategies and …employers’ hiring intention and validated a 6-item Disability Inclusion Strategy Scale , in order to promote employer engagement and provide disability and business technical assistance. METHODS: One hundred and eighty employers completed questionnaires assessing disability inclusion strategies and hiring intention. RESULTS: Results indicated all disability inclusion strategies in the present study were positively related to hiring intention, and findings support the 6-item DISS as a psychometrically sound measurement tool. CONCLUSIONS: Future research and practice implications are provided. Show more

Keywords: Disability inclusion, demand-side employment, disability inclusion strategy

DOI: 10.3233/JVR-201095

Citation: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 53, no. 2, pp. 183-188, 2020

Authors: Butterworth, John | Migliore, Alberto | Nye-Lengerman, Kelly | Lyons, Oliver | Gunty, Amy | Eastman, Jill | Foos, Paul

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The success of job seekers with disabilities in achieving their employment goals depends in large part on the quality of employment supports that they receive from employment consultants. OBJECTIVE: To test the effectiveness of data-enabled performance feedback to assist employment consultants in implementing standards of effective employment supports. METHODS: A total of 187 employment consultants in 30 states were randomly assigned to intervention or control groups. The intervention group received data-enabled performance feedback and guidance for 12 months, whereas the control group continued with business as usual. Both groups completed baseline and quarterly surveys throughout …the intervention. RESULTS: One year after baseline, the intervention group reported a statistically significant improvement in job seekers’ work hours, compared to the control group. Earnings and time to hire improved as well, but the change was not statistically significant. There was no meaningful difference in the number of job seekers hired across the intervention and control groups. CONCLUSION: Challenges in the fidelity of implementation of the intervention make it premature to draw conclusions about the effectiveness of data-enabled performance feedback to employment consultants for improving job seekers’ employment outcomes. Show more

Keywords: Employment specialist, job development, intellectual disabilities, training, evidence-based

DOI: 10.3233/JVR-201096

Citation: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 53, no. 2, pp. 189-203, 2020

Authors: Awsumb, Jessica M. | Carter, Erik W. | Schutz, Michele A. | McMillan, Elise D.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Improving employment outcomes for youth with disabilities requires strong collaborations between educators and adult agencies. The advent of pre-Employment Transition Services (pre-ETS) introduces a new context for Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) to come alongside schools in preparing youth with disabilities for the world of work. OBJECTIVE: This study examines how providers of pre-ETS view the career-related transition practices and employment prospects of youth with disabilities. METHODS: We examined the perspectives of 164 providers on pre-ETS and the employment needs of the students with disabilities whom they served. RESULTS: Although providers expressed confidence in their …knowledge of pre-ETS, they still desired additional training in each of the five core areas. Likewise, they viewed their collaborations with the school as positive, but expressed the value of establishing more extensive collaboration. Overall, providers agreed that multiple barriers stand in the way of serving students with disabilities and that preparation for employment must be further strengthened. Some differences in views were found based on the community (rural versus non-rural) of providers. CONCLUSIONS: We offer recommendations for research, policy, and practice to aid providers in preparing students with disabilities for employment. Show more

Keywords: Employment, transition, vocational rehabilitation, pre-employment transition services

DOI: 10.3233/JVR-201097

Citation: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 53, no. 2, pp. 205-218, 2020

Authors: Clark, Jillian M. R. | Krause, James S.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Understanding vocational interests in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) is essential for informing vocational rehabilitation efforts. OJBECTIVE: Describe the vocational interests of those with MS and identify patterns related to sex and race. METHODS: Participants (n  = 133) were identified through specialty hospital records in the southeastern United States. Participants completed the Strong Interest Inventory, which includes six General Occupational Themes (GOTs), 30 Basic Interest Scales (BIS), and five Personal Style Scales. RESULTS: Male participants scored highest on the Realistic GOT, followed by the Investigative and Conventional GOTs. Female participants scored highest on the …Social GOT, followed by Artistic and Enterprising GOTs. Black participants scored highest on the Social, Conventional, and Enterprising GOTs. White participants scored highest on the Artistic and Social GOTs. Statistically and clinically significant sex differences were seen on two of the GOTs (Realistic and Investigative) and five of the BIS. No racial differences were identified on the GOT. CONCLUSIONS: For males with MS, who express preference in Realistic and Investigative vocational themes, the physical and cognitive symptoms of MS may be incompatible with interest-congruent work environments. Early identification of vocational interests in the context of individual MS symptom experiences is essential to individualize rehabilitation efforts. Show more

Keywords: Employment, occupation, race, sex, disability, multiple sclerosis

DOI: 10.3233/JVR-201098

Citation: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 53, no. 2, pp. 219-225, 2020

Authors: Bross, Leslie Ann | Travers, Jason C. | Munandar, Vidya D. | Morningstar, Mary

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) frequently experience barriers to competitive integrated employment. Established evidence-based practices (EBPs) for individuals with ASD may serve as an effective training method to enhance the employment experiences of this population. OBJECTIVE: This study examined the effects of a packaged intervention consisting of corporate-created video modules, repeated practice with prompting and reinforcement, and social narratives to enhance the on-task work performance of a competitively employed young adult with ASD. METHODS: One male with ASD, age 20 years, was employed as a grocery store courtesy clerk and participated in this …study. The intervention package was implemented at the beginning of his work shift. A co-worker was trained to implement the package as a means to generalize to natural intervention agents in the employment setting. An ABAB withdrawal design with probe sessions was utilized to evaluate the effects of the intervention package. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Results indicated improved on-task work performance to 80% or higher on work shifts the intervention package was implemented. Established EBPs can be used to enhance the job performance of young adults with ASD. Co-workers can also be trained to provide support to employees with ASD. Limitations and suggestions for future research are discussed with particular emphasis on studies in competitive integrated employment contexts. Show more

Keywords: Autism spectrum disorder, competitive integrated employment, evidence-based practices, postschool outcomes, single subject research

DOI: 10.3233/JVR-201099

Citation: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 53, no. 2, pp. 227-239, 2020

Authors: Krause, James S. | Iwanaga, Kanako | Rumrill, Phillip | Reed, Karla S. | Backus, Deborah | Chan, Fong

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) face multiple barriers to obtaining and maintaining employment. Therefore, we need to understand the job considerations deemed most important by persons with MS as they decide to obtain or maintain employment. OBJECTIVE: Identify: (1) the relative importance of 10 job considerations items from the Job Considerations Scale among participants with MS, and (2) the underlying factor structure of the items. The Job Considerations Scale was previously used with persons with spinal cord injury (SCI). METHODS: Self-reported employment outcomes were obtained from 1333 participants with MS identified through records …of a clinical facility in the Southeastern United States specializing in MS treatment. RESULTS: The job considerations identified as most important were having insurance and benefits (4.21), enjoyment from work (4.06), and salary (4.00). Two factors emerged from the factor analysis - tangible and intangible considerations for working. Tangible factors relate to earnings, benefits, and advancement; whereas intangible factors relate more to social and personal aspects of employment. CONCLUSIONS: The tangible and intangible job considerations resulting from the factor analysis are consistent with similar research on SCI, establishing the validity and utility of the Job Considerations Scale with persons with MS. Show more

Keywords: Multiple sclerosis, job satisfaction, work adjustment

DOI: 10.3233/JVR-201100

Citation: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 53, no. 2, pp. 241-248, 2020

Authors: Trenz, Rebecca C. | Seruya, Francine M. | Dondorf-Brooks, Kaitlin

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Women of parenting age from typically marginalized socioeconomic, ethnic, and racial groups are underrepresented in rehabilitation research. The literature indicates that women with disabilities and low socioeconomic status have poor outcomes related to employment and independent living. METHODS: The current study was a secondary data analysis of 8,350 women receiving TANF who completed vocational rehabilitation services from the RSA 911 dataset from fiscal years 2015 and 2016. To meet study aims, descriptive statistics were used to calculate frequencies, means, and percentages for each study variable. A multivariate logistic regression analysis identified demographic variables and vocational rehabilitation services …as predictors of employment. RESULTS: Study findings indicated that on the job training, job search assistance/job placement assistance, short term job supports, and maintenance services were significant predictors of employment among the sample. Demographic predictors of employment are also reported. CONCLUSION: Findings indicate having a high school education or GED predicts positive employment outcomes for women receiving TANF. Provision of services related to the area of maintenance services, including support for food, clothing, and shelter are important features to address in vocational rehabilitation when supporting successful vocational outcomes for women with children and low socioeconomic status. Show more

Keywords: Underrepresented women, parenting, vocation, rehabilitation, employment, impairment, SES, TANF

DOI: 10.3233/JVR-201101

Citation: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 53, no. 2, pp. 249-256, 2020