Journal Article Details

Citation:
Tsang, H. W., Leung, A. Y., Chung, R. C., Bell, M., & Cheung, W. M (2010). Review on vocational predictors: a systematic review of predictors of vocational outcomes among individuals with schizophrenia: an update since 1998. Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, 44 (6), 495-504..
Title:
Review on vocational predictors: a systematic review of predictors of vocational outcomes among individuals with schizophrenia: an update since 1998
Authors:
Tsang, H. W., Leung, A. Y., Chung, R. C., Bell, M., & Cheung, W. M
Year:
2010
Journal/Publication: 
Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry
Publisher:
http://www.sagepublications.com
Full text:
Peer-reviewed?
Yes
NIDILRR-funded? 
No
Research design:
Systematic review / meta-analysis

Structured abstract:

Background:
Six systematic reviews have been conducted on vocational rehabilitation and severe mental illness since 2000. Each has limitations and did not give a comprehensive account of vocational predictors for people with schizophrenia. A review of the literature is needed to address this area.
Purpose:
The purpose of this study was to look at predictors of employment outcomes of individuals with schizophrenia. This information could help inform the development of vocational interventions.
Setting:
This is a systematic review. The included studies were undertaken in various locations and settings.
Study sample:
The study sample included 62 studies involving individuals with schizophrenia.
Control or comparison condition:
There were no comparison or control conditions.
Data collection & analysis:
Two methods for data analysis were used; frequency counts to summarize studies that reported whether an individual predictor was a significant predictor or not and a meta-analysis on the 62 articles. .
Findings:
Unlike, an earlier review, cognitive functioning was a significant predictor. Other significant predictors included education, negative symptoms, social support and skills, age, work history(previous history of successful employment), and rehabilitation service to restore community functioning and well-being by occupational therapists, psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and other mental health professionals. Positive symptoms, substance abuse, gender and hospitalization history were found to be non-significant predictors. The frequency count did not support marital status as a significant predictor but the meta-analysis did.
Conclusions:
This review highlights links between individual characteristics and functional impairment. It also suggests that more research is needed into other predictors.
Disabilities served:
Schizophrenia
Populations served:
Gender: Male
Gender: Female
Interventions:
Career counseling
Job restructuring
Psychological counseling
Rehabilitation counseling
Supported employment
Outcomes:
Employment acquisition