Domain specific work performance change for people with schizophrenia

Abstract

Vocational rehabilitation in schizophrenia has begun to attract research interest. Most of the research focuses on models of vocational service delivery. These studies emphasize global work outcomes and rarely address the more elemental abilities that affect these global outcomes. This study reports on a sample of 146 participants with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder as they progressed through a six-month work rehabilitation program. Participants' work was evaluated biweekly using the Work Behavior Inventory. This rating instrument, which combines behavioral observation and interview methods, generates ratings in five specific work domains (Work Habits, Work Quality, Cooperativeness, Personal Presentation, and Social Skills) as well as a Total rating. Results indicate that nearly three quarters (74%) of the sample improved or became proficient in at least one work domain. Work Quality was the domain most likely to improve, while Cooperativeness was the domain most likely to reach a proficient level of performance. Work Quality, Work Habits, and Personal Presentation showed rapid improvement over the first 13 weeks with only modest gains in the second 13 weeks. Cooperativeness and Social Skills showed more gradual, continuous improvement over the entire six months while improvements in all domains were related to the number of weeks participants were involved in the program.