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Wellbeing and Competitive Employment for Adults With an Acquired Physical or Psychological Disability

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  23 February 2012

Cheryl C. Gilbert  and
Ian Hay
Cheryl C. Gilbert
Affiliation:
Griffith University, Australia
Ian Hay
Affiliation:
The University of Queensland, Australia
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Abstract

The study utilised a quasi-experimental design and quota criteria sample of 38 adults with an acquired physical or psychological disability plus a history of long-term unemployment. At the end of the six months' rehabilitation intervention half of the participants of both disability groups were employed, which challenges the notion that adults with a psychological disability are less likely to achieve re-employment. It is important to note that similar numbers of males and females were employed, for women with a disability have historically been overrepresented in the unemployed numbers and underrepresented in rehabilitation programs. The study demonstrated that individuals with an acquired disability who reported higher self-confidence scores for gaining employment were 75% more likely to be later employed. There was a 29% improvement in General Health Questionnaire-28 scores at the end of the intervention. The program is reported and service delivery and wellbeing issues are discussed.

Type
Articles
Information
The Australian Journal of Rehabilitation Counselling , Volume 10 , Issue 1 , January 2004 , pp. 27 - 35
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2004

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