Research Database: Article Details

Citation:  Strauser, D.R.; Greco, C.E.; Koscuilek, J.F.; Shen, S.; Strauser, D.G.; & Phillips, B.N. (2021). A tool to measure work adjustment in the post-pandemic economy: The Illinois work adjustment scale. Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, 54 (1), 51-58.
Title:  A tool to measure work adjustment in the post-pandemic economy: The Illinois work adjustment scale
Authors:  Strauser, D.R.; Greco, C.E.; Koscuilek, J.F.; Shen, S.; Strauser, D.G.; & Phillips, B.N.
Year:  2021
Journal/Publication:  Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation
Publisher:  IOS Press
DOI:  https://doi.org/10.3233/JVR-201117
Full text:  https://content.iospress.com/articles/journal-of-vocational-rehabil...   
Peer-reviewed?  Yes
NIDILRR-funded?  Yes

Structured abstract:

Purpose:  This article introduces the Illinois Work Adjustment Scale (IWAS) and sets out to confirm the internal validity of the IWAS as well as determine if there are meaningful dimensions among the items of the IWAS that can be further defined as instrument subscales.
Data collection and analysis:  In order to meet these objectives, a survey of 738 individuals, all of whom self-reported as having disabilities, was conducted online.
Findings:  As a result of this survey and exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, the IWAS was reduced from a 26-question scale to an 18-question scale consisting of two meaningful subscales, Work Context and Work Capacity. Significant and meaningful correlations between the two subscales indicate that Work Context and Work Capacity are related to the broader concept of work adjustment and assess unique aspects of work.
Conclusions:  The IWAS has the potential to be applied to facilitate positive career development and vocational rehabilitation outcomes for people with disabilities and chronic health conditions. This is of greater importance now as the COVID-19 crisis has significantly impacted the economy and workforce, leaving those with the greatest barriers to employment such as individuals with disabilities and chronic health conditions further marginalized and disconnected from work.

Disabilities served:  Multiple disabilities
Interventions:  On-the-job training and support
Online training
Supported employment
Vocational rehabilitation
Customized employment
Organization
Outcomes:  Employment acquisition
Full-time employment