Characteristics predicting successful outcomes of participants with severemental illness in supported education

Objective: The study sought to identify characteristics of participants in a supported education program that were related to a successful outcome. Su pported education programs provide rehabilitation and support services to h elp people attain postsecondary education. Methods: A total of 147 persons who completed such a program were interviewed six or 12 months later, or at both times, tee determine whether they were involved in productive activit y, which was defined as engaging in either college or vocational education or in paid employment. Variables examined as predictors of productive activ ity were demographic characteristics; education and work background; social support; self-perceptions related to self-esteem, empowerment, quality of life, and school self-efficacy; and illness-related variables, including di agnosis, symptoms, and length of illness. Results: Multivariate logistic re gression identified the strongest predictor as productive activity at basel ine. Marital status was the only significant demographic variable in the mo del; single participants were less likely to be engaged in productive activ ity. For participants who reported more frequent contact with their social network, the likelihood of engagement in productive activity was higher, an d for those who reported more encouragement for education from their networ k, the likelihood was lower. A lower level of adjustment in the financial d omain decreased the likelihood of productive activity, and a higher level o f problems with housework increased the likelihood No illness-related varia ble or self-perception was a significant predictor. Conclusions: Factors re lated to a successful outcome from a supported education program for person s with severe mental illness are also likely to be important factors for no ndisabled populations. Among those with mental illness, social support is a key factor in attaining educational and vocational goals.