Correlates of Perceived Job Performance Among Employed Adults With Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

BackgroundThe expectation to remain in the labor force is a powerful indicator of long-term employment outcomes for people with multiple sclerosis (MS), and it is determined in part by perceived current job performance.ObjectiveThis study identified correlates of perceived job performance among working adults with MS.MethodParticipants included 611 members of nine National Multiple Sclerosis Society chapters representing 21 states and Washington, DC. Participants were employed, and primarily female (81%), older (average age of 48 years), and White (77%).ResultsHierarchical multiple regression analysis revealed that males, Whites, people without or with low levels of cognitive impairment, and those who reported stronger job/person matches and higher levels of job satisfaction were more likely than other participants to positively evaluate their own job performance. The aggregated predictors explained 20% of the variability in participants’ job performance self-ratings.ImplicationsFindings show the complexity in predicting how satisfied employed people with MS are with their overall job performance, which in turn shapes their expectations and intentions about staying in or disengaging from the workforce. The implications of the findings for rehabilitation counseling interventions and for identifying adults with MS who would benefit from early intervention are discussed.