A Comparison of Supported Work versus Center-Based Program Services on Selected Outcomes for Individuals with Multiple Severe Disabilities

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Abstract
The effects of supported work versus center-based program services were evaluated with four individuals who have multiple severe disabilities. Each week the individuals participated in supported work placements in a publishing company and in a center-based program within an adult education department at a residential center. Systematic observations were conducted in multielement fashion of the degree to which the individuals displayed alert and active behavior, were involved in purposeful activity, and exhibited indices of happiness in both programs. Results indicated that most individuals displayed more alert and active behavior and were involved in more purposeful activity during supported work than during the center-based program. Two of the individuals also displayed more indices of happiness during supported work, whereas two individuals showed no consistent differences in happiness indices across the two types of programs. Possible reasons for the beneficial effects of supported work are discussed, with an emphasis on potentially different expectations for the participants and staff in supported work versus center-based services, as well as differences in the proficiency with which staff performed their duties. Areas for future research are offered to provide more detailed determinations of the relative benefits of supported work for people with multiple severe disabilities.

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