The influence of neurocognitive dysfunctions on work capacity in schizophrenia patients: a systematic review of the literature

Objective. The aim of the study was to review empirical studies of the influence of neurocognitive dysfunctions on work capacity (i.e. the ability to obtain and maintain competitive work as well as different aspects of work behaviour and skills in relation to job requirements) in schizophrenia patients. An investigation of the extent of symptoms compared to neurocognitive functioning on work capacity in schizophrenia patients is included. Method. A literature search for studies in the English language was made in the databases PubMed, PsycInfo and EMBASE. Twenty-one studies were selected for thorough evaluation. Results. Neurocognitive functioning influences employment, work rehabilitation, work skills and work behaviour in various ways among schizophrenia patients. Moreover, symptoms seem less important to work capacity than neurocognitive functioning. Some guidelines can be drawn from the research studies to provide clinicians with indicators for the assessment of neurocognitive functioning in relation to work capacity and rehabilitation. Conclusions. Despite different methodological limitations in the reviewed studies, evidence is presented for a crucial relationship between neurocognitive functioning and work capacity among patients with schizophrenia. At present, the evidence is strong enough to argue that the individual neurocognitive profile should be taken into account before planning work rehabilitation.