| Abstract: | Abstract Objective: To explore and compare the perception of productive activities (studies, work) held by young adults with schizophrenia and their therapists. Method: An exploratory qualitative study was carried out using the Model of Competence (Rousseau, 2003). Nine client-therapist dyads were recruited. Data collected were transcribed, coded, and processed with QSR.N'VIVO (2002). Results: Therapists and clients agree about the personal characteristics (e.g., motivation, coping) and activities (e.g., prior work or study experiences) that have positive (e.g., social skills) or negative influence (e.g., symptoms of schizophrenia) on competence in productive activities. Their perceptions differ about the environmental characteristics that influence competence: some elements are mentioned only by clients (e.g., work environment) or therapists (e.g., using community resources). Conclusion: The framework offered by a specialized clinic can promote exchanges and the congruence of perceptions between therapists and clients. Interventions focusing on the environment should be further developed in relation to productive activities. |
