Core technology, professional engagement, and employee assistance practice

Little is known about employee assistance (EA) practice and its relationship to knowledge and utilization of EA core technology. Survey data measuring levels of knowledge and utilization of five specific technologies finds primary practitioners report higher levels of knowledge and utilization of core technologies; assessment and referral are used most frequently; constructive confrontation, consultation to work organizations, and training are used less commonly; a significant relationship exists between time in the field and knowledge of core technology; and a moderate relationship exists between levels of knowledge and utilization of core technology. An index of professional engagement based on levels of knowledge and utilization of core technology was developed. Implications for EA education, professional credibility, and future areas of research are discussed.