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Meta-analysis of consultation outcome studies
American Journal of Community Psychology
|October 1, 1985
Summary
Psychological consultation effectively modifies behavior and attitudes in both consultees and clients. Meta-analysis of 54 studies confirmed its value across mental health, behavioral, and organizational development models.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Organizational Behavior
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Psychological consultation is a widely used intervention.
- Effectiveness varies across different theoretical models.
- Evidence synthesis is needed to confirm its utility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize findings from controlled studies on psychological consultation.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of consultation across different models.
- To quantify the impact of consultation on consultees and clients.
Main Methods:
- Meta-analysis of 54 controlled studies.
- Inclusion of mental health, behavioral, and organization development models.
- Synthesis of data on behavioral and attitudinal changes.
Main Results:
- Consultation significantly modifies consultee behavior and attitudes (average improvement >71%).
- Consultation also impacts client behavior and attitudes (average improvement >66%).
- No significant differences in effectiveness were found among the three models.
Conclusions:
- Psychological consultation is a validated and effective practice.
- The approach is beneficial for both direct (consultee) and indirect (client) targets.
- Model choice does not appear to influence consultation outcomes.