Supported education for adults with psychiatric disabilities: effectiveness of an occupational therapy program.
OBJECTIVE
This study assessed the effectiveness of a supported education program for adults with psychiatric disabilities.


METHODS
Thirty-eight adults with psychiatric disabilities were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 21) that received supported education services or to a control group (n = 17) that received treatment as usual.


RESULTS
We found a statistically significant difference between experimental and control group participant scores on the five instruments used to measure the program's effectiveness. Sixteen of the 21 experimental group participants (76%) completed the program. At 6-month follow-up, 10(63%) had enrolled in an educational program, had obtained employment, or were applying to a specific program. Only 1 of the control group participants was enrolled in an educational program.


CONCLUSIONS
The results support the effectiveness of the supported education program. A significant number of participants were able to improve their basic academic skills, enhance professional behaviors and social skills, and return to the school or work environment.
Gutman
Sharon A
SA
Programs in Occupational Therapy, Columbia University, 710 West 168th Street, NI-8, New York, NY 10032, USA. sg2422@columbia.edu
Kerner
Robin
R
Zombek
Irene
I
Dulek
Jennifer
J
Ramsey
C Andrew
CA
D000328:Adult; D003200:Computer User Training; D004519:Education, Special / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000592:standards; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009788:Occupational Therapy; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012944:Social Support