Changes in vocational rehabilitation practice since 1992: Administrators' and counselors' perspectives
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
11-1996
Publication Title
Research to Practice
Abstract
This study examined perceptions of vocational rehabilitation administrators and counselors of the meaning, importance, and impact of the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1992. A questionnaire was completed by 251 administrators and 254 counselors from 25 states. Respondents were asked to indicate the extent to which changes had occurred, based on a list of practices recommended by the 1992 Act, in their offices or caseloads. Overall, administrators indicated greater change had taken place than did counselors, but neither group felt that more than "some change" had occurred in their offices or caseloads. Administrators and counselors identified the following groups of practices as areas that have changed: (1) consumer empowerment and choice; (2) assistive technology and accommodations; (3) services for individuals with HIV or AIDS; (4) consumer involvement. The least amount of change was reported for services for individuals with HIV or AIDS. The greatest disparity in the perceptions of administrators and counselors was in the areas of Consumer Involvement and the use of Assistive Technology and Accommodations.
Recommended Citation
Whitney-Thomas, J. & Thomas, D.M. (1996). Changes in vocational rehabilitation practice since 1992: Administrators' and counselors' perspectives. Research to Practice.
