Evaluation of a combined supported computer education and employment training program for persons with psychiatric disabilities

Psychiatr Rehabil J. 2007 Winter;30(3):189-97. doi: 10.2975/30.3.2007.189.197.

Abstract

Meaningful work is described as one of the functional indicators of healing and growth beyond the disability and is seen as critical in recovering a personal sense of worth and value. We describe a supported education-supported employment program which focused on teaching computer, recovery and work skills. A program evaluation was implemented on four consecutive classes of this program. Four classes with a convenience sample of sixty-one students were involved in the evaluation over years. The program utilized a one group pretest, posttest design, with repeated measures over time. Following the 10-month classroom training phase, students entered a 2-month internship to give them computer office work experience. Students were interviewed quarterly using standardized assessments involving work and other subjective outcomes. Results suggest that overall the students experienced a positive change in work status and income and a decrease in mental health services utilization. In addition, non-vocational outcomes, specifically self-esteem and empowerment improved. The program represents a successful integration of supported education and supported employment program models.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Computer User Training*
  • Employment, Supported*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Income
  • Male
  • Massachusetts
  • Mental Disorders / epidemiology
  • Mental Disorders / psychology
  • Mental Disorders / rehabilitation*
  • Mental Health Services / statistics & numerical data
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Power, Psychological
  • Program Evaluation
  • Rehabilitation, Vocational*
  • Self Concept