Journal Article Details
Citation:
Riesen, T.; Sullivan, M.; Keeton, B.; & Snyder, A. (2024). Self-Employment Proficiency Scale for vocational rehabilitation counselors: A validation study.
Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, 61
(3),
319-330.
Title:
Self-Employment Proficiency Scale for vocational rehabilitation counselors: A validation study
Authors:
Riesen, T.; Sullivan, M.; Keeton, B.; & Snyder, A.
Year:
2024
Journal/Publication:
Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation
Publisher:
Sage Journals
DOI:
Full text:
Peer-reviewed?
Yes
NIDILRR-funded?
No
Structured abstract:
Background:
Vocational rehabilitation (VR) programs aim to empower individuals with disabilities to achieve employment, economic self-sufficiency, independence, and inclusion. While self-employment is recognized as a viable pathway to achieve these goals, it remains underutilized. One way to increase the use of self-employment is to train professionals and measure specific proficiencies related to substantive service delivery.
Purpose:
This study addresses the lack of research on vocational rehabilitation counselor (VRC) practices in self-employment implementation and is the first step to validating a VRC Self-Employment Proficiency Scale.
Data collection & analysis:
The study used a qualitative, descriptive research design with participants engaged in self-employment-related activities. Participants rated proficiency scale items through a survey, interviews, and a focus group.
Findings:
Results highlight consensus and variations in perceptions across competency domains. Notably, there was a lack of consensus on some descriptors, leading to suggestions for revisions to the final scale. The findings underscore the complexity of operationalizing self-employment and the self-employment process to improve vocational outcomes.
Conclusions:
This study provides information about competencies for VRCs who provide self-employment services. The results can be used to inform the development of comprehensive training programs and policies, advancing the broader goals of the Rehabilitation Act.
Interventions:
Vocational rehabilitation
Outcomes:
Self-employment