A structural equation model relating work stress, coping resource, and quality of life among Chinese medical professionals

Am J Ind Med. 2010 Nov;53(11):1170-6. doi: 10.1002/ajim.20864.

Abstract

Background: Work stress and coping resource may contribute to the quality of life in medical professionals. This study is to determine the relationships among work stressor, personal strain, coping resource and the quality of life (QOL) and its two dimensions in medical professionals.

Methods: The Chinese version of Short Form-36 Health Survey was used to measure QOL, the modified edition of the Occupational Stress Inventory was applied to evaluate the work stressor, personal strain and coping resources among 2,721 medical professionals. The structural equation model was established to assess the relationships among these variables.

Results: Work stressor and coping resources had both direct and indirect effects on QOL and its two dimensions, the indirect effects were mediated by personal strain. Personal strain had a negative direct effect on QOL and its two dimensions.

Conclusions: This study confirmed a complex relationship among these variables. Countermeasures targeting work stressor, reducing personal strain and strengthening coping resources are necessary in order to improve the QOL among medical professionals.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological*
  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • China
  • Female
  • Health Personnel / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Likelihood Functions
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Models, Statistical*
  • Occupations*
  • Quality of Life / psychology*
  • Stress, Psychological*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Work / psychology*
  • Young Adult