Factors affecting clinical and employment outcomes in employee assistance programs: An analysis of prior research

This study explored factors that affect clinical and employment outcomes in Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). Research was conducted through a secondary content analysis of the results of prior empirical research studies. The study consisted of 21 empirical research studies that examined characteristics and outcomes in EAPs. Prior studies were explored in two major areas: personal characteristics and clinical factors. The variables were examined in relationship to clinical and employment outcomes. The majority of studies revealed significant improvement in both outcome measures. The results of the content analysis indicate that certain characteristics may be common among EAP users, however, multiple factors and variance in descriptions make it difficult to draw general conclusions about their effect on both clinical and employment outcomes. Implications for social work practice and future research are discussed.