Authors (including presenting author) :
So YH (1), Hui CY(1), Ho ECM (1), Chan WH (1)
Affiliation :
Occupational Therapy Department, Tai Po Hospital (1)
Introduction :
Increasing workplace challenges faced by psychiatric patients, especially social competence which underscore the need for the Work-related Social Competence Training and Empowerment Program (W-STEP). Developed locally last year, W-STEP aims to enhance social knowledge, skills, and self-efficacy—key components for success. This pilot study evaluates W-STEP's effectiveness in acute psychiatric patients with varying levels of social competencies.
Objectives :
Enhance patients' social knowledge, social skills, and self-efficacy.
Methodology :
A total of 32 participants from in-patient settings at Tai Po Hospital were included in the study, conducted from December 2023, to November 2024.
Target Group:
- Inclusion criteria:
1. Mentally stable
2. Motivated to improve work-related social skills
3. Pending supported employment
- Exclusion criteria:
1. Learning disabilities
Participants underwent pre- and post-assessments using a Vocational Social Skills assessment Scale and a knowledge quiz. The program consisted of six sessions covering three areas:
1. Knowledge of basic social skills
2. Skills of social survival through role play
3. Coaching for general and specific work-related situations
Result & Outcome :
The relationships among knowledge, skills and self-efficacy within W-STEP were interconnected and mutually reinforcing, as shown by paired t-tests:
1) Social knowledge improved from 68.1% to 83.1% (p < 0.001).
2) Social skills enhanced from 65.6% to 82.6% (p < 0.001).
3) Self-efficacy improved from 69.4% to 75.2% (p < 0.001).
Increased knowledge directly influenced social skills development, enabling effective communication and adaptability in the workplace. As participants' knowledge grew, they felt better prepared for social situations, highlighting the importance of ongoing learning. This improvement in social skills elevated self-efficacy, fostering proactive interactions.
Together, these elements created a strong framework for empowering mental health patients, leading to enhanced personal and professional outcomes through the progression from knowledge to skills and self-efficacy.
To sustain W-STEP's benefits, a structured follow-up approach is essential, involving ongoing support through collaboration with community resources, such as supported employment training from NGOs and the Labour Department. Follow-up methods may include phone check-ins and regular workplace visits to ensure long-term employment stability.
In conclusion, enhancing social knowledge, skills, and self-efficacy through W-STEP, along with community collaboration, is vital for sustaining patients' employment stability. A robust support network equips participants to navigate workplace challenges and achieve lasting success.
