Predictors of employment among underrepresented women and TANF recipients that completed vocational rehabilitation services

BACKGROUND: Women of parenting age from typically marginalized socioeconomic, ethnic, and racial groups are underrepresented in rehabilitation research. The literature indicates that women with disabilities and low socioeconomic status have poor outcomes related to employment and independent living. METHODS: The current study was a secondary data analysis of 8,350 women receiving TANF who completed vocational rehabilitation services from the RSA 911 dataset from fiscal years 2015 and 2016. To meet study aims, descriptive statistics were used to calculate frequencies, means, and percentages for each study variable. A multivariate logistic regression analysis identified demographic variables and vocational rehabilitation services as predictors of employment. RESULTS: Study findings indicated that on the job training, job search assistance/job placement assistance, short term job supports, and maintenance services were significant predictors of employment among the sample. Demographic predictors of employment are also reported. CONCLUSION: Findings indicate having a high school education or GED predicts positive employment outcomes for women receiving TANF. Provision of services related to the area of maintenance services, including support for food, clothing, and shelter are important features to address in vocational rehabilitation when supporting successful vocational outcomes for women with children and low socioeconomic status.