Work-Related Factors Associated With Health and Well-Being of Early Care and Education Workers

Abstract

Objective: We assessed and examined relationships between the health and working conditions of early care and education workers.

Methods: We surveyed early care and education workers ( n = 2242) about their socioeconomic characteristics; work organization; psychosocial, physical, and ergonomic exposures; coping behaviors; and health.

Results: Nearly half of respondents reported chronic health conditions. Most worked full time, half earned less than $30,000 a year, and many reported unpaid hours or inability to take breaks. One-quarter reported economic strain. Numerous exposures were prevalent. Workers' general health was poorer than normed averages, although their physical functioning was slightly better. Sixteen percent of workers reported work-related injuries, and 43% reported depressive symptoms. Factors associated with health included socioeconomic characteristics, having a chronic condition, job type, access to benefits, eight psychosocial stressors, four physical exposures, sleep, and alcohol consumption.

Conclusions: Findings support the need for attention to this workforce's health.