Stress, coping and the job search process: the experience of people with psychiatric disabilities in supported employment

Abstract

Ten people with psychiatric disabilities and their supported employment coordinators responded to a standardized, open-ended interview about the stresses experienced during the job search process and the coping strategies used to deal with these stresses. The stress inherent in the potential for rejection and negative valuation was a major theme. The respondents described both problem based and emotion focused coping strategies. The people with psychiatric disabilities also identified cognitive strategies they employ to maintain their motivation and ego integrity. While these cognitive strategies are used to neutralize the impact of a stress, they can be a source of tension within the rehabilitation relationship. Current conceptualizations may not adequately address the struggles inherent in the job search process.