This study, which explored job terminations among 60 individuals with severe mental illness participating in a supported employment program in Hong Kong, used the Chinese Job Termination Interview that was validated and translated from the Job Termination Interview (JTI; Becker, Drake, Bond et al., 1988). More than half of the job terminations (53%) were unsatisfactory which included dissatisfaction with job (44%) and lack of interest (22%). Modification of work schedules and provision of adequate supervision and coaching at the workplace were identified as necessary job accommodations. Similarities and differences of findings were compared with overseas studies. Possible improvement of current supported employment program was discussed.

Consistent with previous research findings in the United States, the supported employment program was more effective than the conventional vocational rehabilitation program in helping individuals with long-term mental illness find and sustain competitive employment in a Hong Kong setting. The supported employment program based on the individual placement and support model can thus be recommended for wider use in local mental health practice.