Vocational rehabilitation as a public health intervention for young African American men with substance use disorders

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to identify predictors of employment for young African American men recovering from substance use disorders.

METHODS: Data for 684 young African American men with substance use disorders were extracted from the Rehabilitation Services Administration’s (RSA) Case Service Report (RSA-911) database. Logistic regression analysis using the purposeful selection approach was utilized to identify predictors of competitive employment.

RESULTS: Young African American men recovering from substance use disorders who received on-the-job supports, job placement, information and referral services, and other services were more likely to attain competitive employment than those who did not receive these vocational rehabilitation services. Interestingly, job readiness training and job search assistance were not significant predictors of successful employment outcomes, suggesting that for clients facing multiple intersecting stigmas, it may be more realistic and effective to use the selective placement approach to find and match them directly with job openings and provide them with ongoing supports to help them build a meaningful work history.

CONCLUSIONS: Vocational rehabilitation services have significant positive impact on employment outcomes for young African American men recovering from substance use disorders. Collaboration between rehabilitation and other health professionals to promote the use of employment services to improve public health outcomes for young African American men is warranted.