title: What leads to the expectation to return to work? Insights from a Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) model of future work outcomes.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  This study used a Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) model to identify the factors influencing the future work expectations and outcomes of employees with a musculoskeletal injury.
  
  
  METHODS
  Australians with a compensable work injury (N=174), mean age=43.7 years, 53.2% male, 48.3% back injury , and 34.2% unskilled.
  
  
  METHODS
  A TPB model of the target behavior 'working, or continuing to work … three months from now' was constructed. A questionnaire measuring the model's components was completed at baseline and three-months follow-up.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The model met standard psychometric requirements. Attitude, Subjective Norm and Perceived Behavioral Control explained 76% of the variance in Behavioral Intention (<formula>R^{2}</formula>= 0.76, p< 0.001). Behavioral Intention (the expectation to return to work) explained 51% of the variance in work participation at follow-up (Nagelkerke <formula>R^{2}</formula>=0.51, p< 0.001; sensitivity=86.4%, specificity=71.2%). The strength of key influences on expectations varied according to employment status, but included the availability of modified duties, social aspects of work, the opinion of the treating doctor, co-worker support, pain, and functional limitations.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The TPG is a useful model and conceptual framework for integrating the biopsychosocial determinantsof return to work (RTW) and identifying the influences on future work expectations and outcomes.
authors.affiliation: Discipline of Psychology, School of Behavioural, Cognitive and Social Sciences, University of New England, Armidale, Australia.
authors.forename: Debra A
authors.initials: DA
authors.lastname: Dunstan
authors.forename: Tanya
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Covic
authors.forename: Graham A
authors.initials: GA
authors.lastname: Tyson
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001290:Attitude; D001315:Australia; D004651:Employment / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D033182:Intention; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D059352:Musculoskeletal Pain / Q000523:psychology; D009141:Musculoskeletal System / Q000293:injuries*; D011582:Psychological Theory; D062707:Return to Work / Q000523:psychology*; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012944:Social Support; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D055815:Young Adult