A model for supervisory intervention with problem employee behaviors

The purpose of this study was to examine the efficacy of a Reality Therapy-based supervisory model for reducing incident levels of problem behaviors among employees. First and some second line supervisors, selected by the administration from participating organizations, became the subjects. These supervisors, who were from primarily hospital settings, were assigned randomly to either the treatment or comparison group. Supervisors were responsible for selecting a target employee, monitoring the problem behavior(s) identified, and recording data on the incidence of problem behavior(s). All supervisors received some initial training, while treatment group supervisors received additional training in application of the intervention model. Comparison group supervisors were directed to handle their employees in their usual manner.

A single subject approach using an AB experimental design was selected, in view of the individualized nature of the intervention model. Complete and usable data were obtained from only 10 super visors, five each from the supervisory groups delineated. Small sample size and variability of problem behaviors precluded group data analyses. Therefore, individual data were treated graphically and the level and direction of change were calculated for each target employee. Decreases in problem behaviors were noted among target employees in both supervisory groups, however, all five employees exposed to the treatment model demonstrated decreases. The hypothesis which Involved a prediction of positive change in the treatment group with little or no change in the comparison group remained untested, due to small sample size and nonequivalence of the problem behaviors examined.