Abstracts

RATIONALE:_Although some research does exist in regard to the vocational interestes of adults with epilepsy (Fraser, et.al., 1985), there has been no discussion to date in relation to work values or work reinforcers for those with this disability. For those with no clearly defined vocational interests, it seemed of import to develop an understanding of "work-related reinforcers" for this disability group to help them engage in the vocational rehabilitation process. _METHODS:A 23 item work values protocol was developed, and 5 point Likert scale ratings were used to rate each work value (e.g. salary level, job security, indoor work, ability to interact with others, etc.)1 for 50 sequential referals of adults with epilepsy refered for vocational evaluation or job placement activity at the University of Washington Regional Epilepsy Center. A comparison group of 30 vocational referrals of individuals with other neurological disorders was also developed. RESULTS: Findings represent the overall work values profile of the epilepsy group and assess significant differences bewteen the epilepsy and the comparison group. Within the epilepsy group, work values differences were evaluated across subgroups: early vs. late epilepsy onset, less than vs. more than twelve years education, male vs. female gender, major vs. minor motor seizures, and low vs. high seizure frequency. CONCLUSIONS:_ For many individuals with epilepsy, although vocational interests may not be well developed (particularly for males with early epilepsy onset), work values or "reinforcing aspects about" a particular position at a work site may be of more value in engaging a client in the vocational rehabilitation process than actual job interests. The work values identified here may be utilized by vocational rehabilitation counselors, high school counselors, social workers, and other psychosocial personnel in encouraging adults with epilepsy, particularly young males,to participate in vocational activities and programs.