Abstract
Background
Vocational rehabilitation (VR) programs aim to empower individuals with disabilities to achieve employment, economic self-sufficiency, independence, and inclusion. While self-employment is recognized as a viable pathway to achieve these goals, it remains underutilized. One way to increase the use of self-employment is to train professionals and measure specific proficiencies related to substantive service delivery.
Objective
This study addresses the lack of research on vocational rehabilitation counselor (VRC) practices in self-employment implementation and is the first step to validating a VRC Self-Employment Proficiency Scale.
Method
The study used a qualitative, descriptive research design with participants engaged in self-employment-related activities. Participants rated proficiency scale items through a survey, interviews, and a focus group.
Results
Results highlight consensus and variations in perceptions across competency domains. Notably, there was a lack of consensus on some descriptors, leading to suggestions for revisions to the final scale. The findings underscore the complexity of operationalizing self-employment and the self-employment process to improve vocational outcomes.
Conclusion
This study provides information about competencies for VRCs who provide self-employment services. The results can be used to inform the development of comprehensive training programs and policies, advancing the broader goals of the Rehabilitation Act.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.