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Dissertation
A predictive model for vocational outcome in patients with low-grade brain tumors
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Drexel University
May 2004
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/etd-301
Abstract
Despite advances in survival and longevity in the low-grade brain tumor population, this study is the first to focus on vocational outcome, and presents two accomplishments. First, this study developed and piloted a survey to standardize a comprehensive measure of vocational outcome for this, and other, neurological populations. Second, this is the initial report of predictors of vocational outcome in the low-grade brain tumor population. Specifically, the current study examined the predictive validity of tumor-related, functional, and social factors for vocational outcome with regard to whether or not one returns to work and the amount of leave taken from work prior to returning. The results implicate a multidimensional model for both outcomes. Specifically, being male, not having radiation therapy, lower levels of fatigue, better performance on measures of complex attention and processing speed, and not having a posterior tumor location were most predictive of return to work, correctly classifying employment status for 85% of the cases at one year following diagnosis and surgery. Similarly, being male, not having radiation therapy, lower levels of fatigue, and better performance on complex attention and processing speed explained 35% of the variance in time to return to work. By one year post baseline, 80% of the sample (n=67) was employed, returning in an average of eight weeks. Moreover, the majority of subjects (72%) reported no changes in work status or productivity at one year, and the remaining subjects who indicated change were equally as likely to report negative changes as positive changes, suggesting overall stability in return to work profiles. However, qualitative analysis revealed a trend in reduction in responsibilities and hours worked per week upon re-entering the workforce that rebounded to baseline productivity at one year. Data obtained from the vocational survey remain exploratory due to limited sample size, but support the notion that employment is viewed as a primary role that adds meaning to one's livelihood. Nonetheless, the vocational survey affords advances in the development of a systematic measure of vocational outcome, with the ultimate goal of standardizing an instrument to be used for research purposes and to inform clinical practice.
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Details
- Title
- A predictive model for vocational outcome in patients with low-grade brain tumors
- Creators
- Jody Beth Lowry - DU
- Contributors
- Douglas L. Chute (Advisor) - Drexel University (1970-)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Resource Type
- Dissertation
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Psychological and Brain Sciences (Psychology); College of Arts and Sciences; Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 301; 991014632297504721