Exploring perceptions of occupational competence among participants in Individual Placement and Support (IPS)

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to explore perceptions of occupational competence and occupational value among a group of clients engaged in Individual Placement and Support (IPS). Methods: The Occupational Self-Assessment (OSA), based on the Model of Human Occupation, was used with 65 men and women with mental illness, and 45 of these completed the study. Results: Rasch analyses showed that the participants perceived “Managing my finances”, “Managing my basic needs”, and “Doing activities I like” as the most valued occupations. Most competence was perceived in “Taking care of myself”. Among the occupations where the participants perceived least competence, “Getting done what I need to do” and “Accomplishing what I set out to do” were the occupations that most stand out. Significant differences were also found between perceived competence and value in most of the occupations. Conclusions: Beyond those occupations valued as most important among the participants, it is essential also to pay attention to those in which they perceived least competence, as they are important for being able to achieve a desired occupation. Support related to perceptions of occupational competence can contribute to enabling clients in IPS to master a desired working life.