Predictors of Post-High School Employment for Youth Identified As Severely Emotionally Disturbed

Abstract

Using the National Longitudinal Transition Study database, this study explored predictors of postschool employment for 412 youth identified as severely emotionally disturbed (SED). This research focused on the relationship between postschool employment and (a) personal variables, (b) the receipt of counseling or therapy in school, and (c) the receipt of vocational training in school. A hierarchical regression analysis revealed that basic skills, competence, and graduation from high school increased individual chances of employment. Collectively, school variables including vocational education, counseling, and possession of a diploma also positively influenced postschool employment. The article concludes with implications for future research and educational practice.