Managers' Influence on the Prevention of Common Mental Disorders in the Workplace: A Cross-Sectional Study Among Swedish Managers

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the association among managers' attitudes toward subordinates with common mental disorders (CMDs), self-confidence in supporting these subordinates, and managerial preventive actions (MPAs).

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among Swedish managers (n = 2988) and two types of MPAs: reviewing assignments and work situation (MPA-review), and talking about CMD at the workplace (MPA-talk). Binary logistic regression models were applied and adjusted for individual and organizational covariates.

Results: Managers with negative attitudes toward subordinates with CMD were less likely to have done both MPAs. Managers with higher self-confidence in supporting these subordinates were more likely to have done both MPAs compared with managers with lower self-confidence.

Conclusions: Managerial negative attitudes toward CMD and self-confidence in supporting subordinates with CMD have a role in MPAs and should be addressed in manager training programs to encourage preventive actions.