Towards culturally sensitive EAP counseling for Chinese in Hong Kong

Abstract

With the economic recession in Hong Kong, employee assistance programs (EAP) have become increasingly imperative. This paper reviews the existing methods of operation of EAP counseling in Hong Kong. Two models of operation-internal and external-are identified. While each model has its strengths and weaknesses, neither has taken into account the importance of cultural context. Most EAP counseling services in Hong Kong reflect an unrefined attempt to adapt Western theories to the Chinese cultural context of Hong Kong. The result is often a mismatch between the theoretical framework and the cultural realities. This paper suggests a non-normative, culturally sensitive model that concentrates on the strengths of the employees and the organization. The model is based on a solution-focused framework that integrates cultural, organizational factors and intervention approaches.