Article

Media-based rehabilitation provides a powerful opportunity to examine
vocational behaviors in the disability sector. However, this research is
preliminary at best. This paper reports pilot data. METHOD: Eighteen adults with
multiple sclerosis (MS) accessed an email-delivered, resource-based package, Work
and MS. Pre- and post-access vocational self-efficacy and identity
(Job-Procurement Self Efficacy Scale, My Vocational Situation Scale- primary
outcomes), life orientation and depressed mood (Life Orientation Test - revised
and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 - secondary outcomes) were assessed. Pre- and
post-change scores were examined with Wilcoxon signed ranks tests and Hedges g
effect sizes with associated 95% confidence intervals. Reliable change analyses
were additionally calculated to determine the clinical significance of individual
change scores. RESULTS: Significant and positive effects were reported for
vocational self-efficacy, identity, and optimism. Reliable change scores in one
or more of these key outcomes were reported by 30% of the sample. Satisfaction
with the content and delivery of the email-based intervention was also noted.
CONCLUSIONS: Preliminary evidence suggests that Work and MS can help to promote
vocational goals, interests and strengths among job seekers with a disability by
providing a set of tools, information and linkages relating to vocational
pursuits and career development. Replication with a randomized control design is
indicated. Implications for Rehabilitation Research indicates a high unemployment
rate among working-age adults with MS. A combination of disease-specific,
psychological, programmatic and societal variables contribute to employment
instability in this group. This pilot study demonstrates that an e-mail-based
resource package, Work and MS, provides an innovative and feasible option for
promoting consumer engagement with vocational services and, potentially,
improving vocational outcomes. Work and MS has potential applicability to other
disability groups.

Langue : ANGLAIS