Levels of expectation for work activity in schizophrenia: Clinical and rehabilitation outcomes

Abstract

Effects of expectation in a work activity program were assessed for 150 participants with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder who were randomly assigned to a high expectation (20/hrs per week), low expectation (10/hrs per week) and self-regulation condition. Results generally favored the self-regulation condition, which yielded more total weeks of work and greater symptom improvement at 5-month follow-up. Findings suggest that rehabilitation programs that impose sanctions for not meeting minimum expectations may unduly deny participants the clinical benefits of sustained engagement in rehabilitation.