Factors associated with work integration for mental health consumers

grantor: University of TorontoResearch on work integration for mental health consumers has typically examined the relationship of clinical and individual variables to employment, and few conclusions have been reached. This study shifts the focus of inquiry to include individually-based variables as well as environmental variables. A mixed method design drawing on quantitative and qualitative approaches was used to examine factors associated with work integration for mental health consumers. Thirty-six consumers (N = 36) were recruited into one of two groups: (1) consumers who were employed in integrated settings (n = 17) and (2) consumers who had left their jobs within a six-month period prior to the study (n = 19). Quantitative data were collected on four variables: empowerment, social support, organizational culture/climate and person-environment fit. Instruments used were the Empowerment Questionnaire, the Interpersonal Support Evaluation List (ISEL), the Workplace Climate Questionnaire (WCQ) and the Organizational Culture Profile (OCP). Data analysis revealed significant group differences along the dimensions of organizational climate and person-environment fit. Significant differences in effect sizes of perceived characteristics of the workplace were also determined. Logistic regression analyses revealed that organizational climate and person-environment fit were significant predictors of employment status. Qualitative data were collected through semistructured interviews with participants in both groups. Content analysis revealed the following themes: the impact of the organization on job satisfaction and tenure, the importance of supervisory and coworker relationships and attitudes, and the meaningfulness of work.Ph.D