Writing Under the Influence: Science Versus Fiction in the Analysis of Corporate Alcoholism Programs

Abstract

This paper examines the development and reporting of knowledge about employee alcoholism programs. It argues that specialists in this field frequently have overstated both the seventy of the problem and the effectiveness of rehabilitative measures. Their claims are compared with evidence from the limited body of systematic research on this topic. COPYRIGHT

What do we really know about EAPs?

“…Thus far, with only a very few exceptions, the literature has been very supportive of EAPs. One of the exceptions is Weiss (1987), who argues that studies of the impact of alcoholism in the work place and studies of treatment effects of corporate alcoholism programs are methodologically lacking and are designed to promote rather than evaluate treatment. The critical analysis reported here expands Weiss' work by examining the legal, success rate, and cost-effectiveness issues of EAPs.…”

An Employee Assistance Model of Health Care Management for Employees With Alcohol‐Related Problems

“…This may be an important development. Alcohol abuse does not always show up as impaired performance (Appelbaum, 1982;R. M. Weiss, 1987).…”

“…His prediction has been found to be correct. There has been growing criticism (Kurtz, Googins, &Howard, 1984;R. M. Weiss, 1987) and suggestions for cutting expenses (Klarreich et al, 1987;Penzer, 1987: L. K. Weiss, 1987.…”

Alternative Solutions to the Workplace Drug Problem: Results of a Survey of Personnel Managers

“…It has been our experience that a major point of resistance to EAPs relates to their cost-effectiveness, particularly regarding treatment of those dependent on drugs other than alcohol. While widely praised as an effective alternative to termination, critics have noted that much of the research on EAPs has lacked rigor (Luthans & Waldersee, 1989;Weiss, 1987). Moreover, the majority of studies have been limited to alcohol use.…”

“…Unfortunately, these studies continue a tradition of in-house research published without the benefit of peer review. As Weiss (1987) noted, greater confidence in EAP effectiveness will follow from research conducted by a wider variety of more obviously neutral scientists.…”