Reliability of a scale of work-related self-efficacy for people with psychiatric disabilities

Work-related self-efficacy at a core task level fits with the social cognitive career theory explaining the career development of people with severe mental illness. The aim of this study was to further investigate the psychometric properties of the 'Work-related Self-Efficacy Scale' for use with people with psychiatric disabilities. Sixty individuals with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder participated in repeated telephone interviews conducted 2-5 days apart. Short-cycle test-retest reliability and internal structure were assessed. Face validity, consumer and clinician acceptability and utility were examined qualitatively. Short-cycle test-retest reliability was found to be very good at item and total score levels. The internal structure was consistent with previous investigations. Although face validity, acceptability and utility were adequate, use of face-to-face interviews is preferred over telephone interviews. The construct validity evidence supports wider use for research purposes in community mental health service, supported employment and other psychiatric rehabilitation settings.