Investigating A Psychoeducational Job Search Intervention Among Unemployed Individuals

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of Project P.A.T.H., a job search psychoeducation intervention, on unemployed individuals\u27 levels of job search knowledge, job search self-efficacy, employment hope, and group therapeutic factors. To contribute to the knowledgebase in the counseling and counselor education fields, the researcher examined (a) if Project P.A.T.H. influences job search knowledge, job search self-efficacy, and employment hope over time; (b) the potential relationship between outcome variables and participant demographics; and (c) the potential relationship between the outcome variables and the group therapeutic factors. A multi-group pretest-posttest quasi-experimental design was utilized in this study. Participants received a nine-hour group psychoeducation intervention among various formats including (a) one-day in person, (b) two-day in-person, and (c) two-day virtually. The counseling groups were offered at Christian Help Foundation Inc. affiliated locations. There were three data collection points: (a) prior to the start of the intervention, (b) after the intervention, and (c) 30-days follow-up. The final sample size was 30 unemployed individuals. The research questions were examined using: (a) Dependent t-test (b) Multiple Regression, (c) Pearson Product Moment Correlations, and (d) Cronbach\u27s alpha reliability analysis. In addition to a literature review, the research methods and statistical results are provided. Results of the investigation are reviewed and compared to previous research findings. Further, areas for future research, limitations of the study, and implications for the counseling and counselor education fields are presented. Implications of the study\u27s findings include: (a) competencies for improving job search programs, (b), training techniques for counselors-in-training, and (c) the need for further research and advocacy within mental health and career counseling fields