The tripartite efficacy beliefs model in vocational rehabilitation: Implications for working alliance and client engagement

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Given the importance of working alliance to client engagement and outcomes in vocational rehabilitation, there is a need to better understand predictors of the client counselor relationship. Research has shown the tripartite efficacy model as a way of understanding working alliance in various contexts but has never been examined in vocational rehabilitation. OBJECTIVE: This study evaluates the relationship among tripartite efficacy beliefs constructs (self-efficacy, other-efficacy, and relation-inferred self-efficacy [RISE]), working alliance, and engagement for 350 clients receiving state vocational rehabilitation services. METHODS: Researchers used a path analysis to assess the hypothesis that the tripartite efficacy model would predict client engagement through its impact on working alliance. RESULTS: The hypothesized model had a close fit. Other-efficacy and RISE beliefs had significant positive direct effects on working alliance and indirect effects on client engagement. Self-efficacy had a significant negative direct effect on working alliance and client engagement. CONCLUSIONS: The study supports the tripartite efficacy beliefs model as a way of better understanding client perceptions of working alliance in vocational rehabilitation.