The effect of IPS on participants' engagement, quality of life, empowerment, and motivation: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of Individual Placement and Support (IPS) with regard to non-vocational outcomes among individuals with severe mental illness.

Methods: A randomized controlled trial was carried out, comparing IPS with traditional vocational rehabilitation. The Empowerment Scale, the Worker Role Interview, the Profile of Occupational Engagement, and the Manchester Short Assessment of Quality of Life were administered to 120 clients, at baseline, six, and 18 months.

Results: IPS participants showed higher scores in quality of life (p = 0.002), empowerment (p = 0.047), and work motivation (p = 0.033) at 18 months. Within the IPS group, a significant change in QOL was shown at six (p = 0.002) and 18 months (p = 0.000), and in occupational engagement (p = 0.003; p = 0.012).

Conclusions: IPS can be part of a recovery process as individuals may increase their life satisfaction and time spent in daily occupations and community life.