Correlates of Return to Work After an Onset of Short-Term Disability Among Female Union Members

ABSTRACT

This study assessed factors associated with return to work following short-term disability leave among 185 female employees covered by union disability benefits. Examining social support, job, health, and demographic variables, and the possible mediating effect of each of these factors upon return to work, the study reveals-through four logistic regression models-that family status, job tenure, severity of illness, and type of disability are associated with return to work. These observations may help guide Employee Assistance Program (EAP) social workers to identify and intervene with employees who may be at risk of leaving the labor force.