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The Journal of Behavioral Health Services & Research

Published in:

01-07-2019

Vocational Peer Support: Results of a Qualitative Study

Authors: Oyenike Balogun-Mwangi, PhD, E. Sally Rogers, ScD, Mihoko Maru, MA, Christopher Magee, BSc

Published in: The Journal of Behavioral Health Services & Research | Issue 3/2019

Abstract

Peer-delivered services for individuals with psychiatric conditions are becoming an established part of the mental health workforce. Given the growing focus on evidence-based supported employment, peer specialists are often assisting individuals who are choosing, getting, or keeping employment. As part of a larger randomized clinical trial examining the effectiveness of an innovative intervention called vocational peer support, 13 semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted to examine how recipients perceived peer support, and whether or how it was useful for pursuing vocational goals. A thematic analysis approach was utilized for identifying major themes and sub-themes. Results suggest that a key factor in the effectiveness of vocational peer support is the identification with another individual’s “lived experience,” which then promotes engagement and a sense of normalcy. Vocational peer support may be particularly useful for individuals with psychiatric disabilities wishing to pursue a vocational goal.

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Title: Vocational Peer Support: Results of a Qualitative Study
Authors: Oyenike Balogun-Mwangi, PhD
E. Sally Rogers, ScD
Mihoko Maru, MA
Christopher Magee, BSc
Publication date: 01-07-2019
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: The Journal of Behavioral Health Services & Research / Issue 3/2019
Print ISSN: 1094-3412
Electronic ISSN: 2168-6793
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11414-017-9583-6

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Vocational Peer Support: Results of a Qualitative Study

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Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

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