Employment retention expectations of working adults with multiple sclerosis: A multinomial logistic regression analysis

Abstract

BACKGROUND: For too many cases, multiple sclerosis (MS) results in premature exit from the workforce due to both the complexity and unpredictable nature of its symptoms. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this investigation was to examine differential employment self-efficacy expectations on the part of employed adults with MS. METHODS: Drawn from a larger national survey, the sample for this study (N=590) consisted of individuals with three types of employment expectations: continue employment for the next 2 to 5 years, decrease work responsibilities or hours in the next 2 to 5 years, and exit employment in the next 2 to 5 years. RESULTS: Findings confirmed the utility of social cognitive theory regarding the relationship between background, physiological and affective states, performance accomplishments, and proximal contextual influences and employment expectancies. Compared to those who expected to retain their employment, those who planned to decrease work responsibilities or exit the workforce were older, more severely disabled from MS, and, in the case of those planning to decrease their job duties, less likely to have access to suitable housing. CONCLUSION: Specific recommendations regarding intervention strategies are provided, including the need to assist minority adults with MS in securing more satisfying employment.