Factors Associated with Employment for Mental Health Consumers

Research on work for people with psychiatric disabilities has typically examined the relationship of clinical variables to employment. This study shifts the focus of inquiry to include environmental as well as individual variables. An analysis was carried out on the relationship of four variables to employment: empowerment, social support, organizational culture/climate, and person/environment fit. Thirty-six consumers were recruited into one of two groups: (1) consumers who were employed in integrated settings (n=17); and (2) consumers who had recently left their jobs (n=19). Data analysis revealed significant group differences along the dimensions of organizational climate and person/environment fit. The results point to the importance of considering workplace climate and its congruence with individuals' value systems in promoting vocational outcomes. (Author)

Publication Date: 
2000
Pages: 
13-21
Volume: 
24
Issue: 
1
Journal Name: 
Psychiatric Rehabilitation Journal