Fourteenth International Conference on Health, Wellness & Society

Abstract

Men in helping professions face many challenges, including stressors related to the nature of the work itself and work environments typically considered “feminine”, which may be related to psychological distress. The current study used a serial-parallel mediation model to explore whether selected work-related indices are associated with psychological distress among men in helping professions. Specifically, the model examined the role of self-reported empathy (the ability to feel or act empathetically towards clients), self-efficacy, and job satisfaction, in the association between burnout and psychological distress. Structured questionnaires were administered to a sample of 343 male nurses and social workers. The mediation model found that significant burnout contributed to psychological distress, as well as to low levels of empathy, sense of self-efficacy, and job satisfaction. In conclusion, the study highlights the intricate relationship between burnout and psychological distress among men in helping professions, shedding light on the mediating factors of empathy, self-efficacy, and job satisfaction. The findings underscore the importance of addressing burnout as a primary factor contributing to psychological distress, which in turn affects various aspects of the professionals’ well-being and job performance. Recognizing the challenges faced by men in professions traditionally associated with femininity, the implications of this study suggest the need for targeted interventions to enhance emotional resilience, self-efficacy, and job satisfaction, ultimately fostering a healthier work environment and more effective caregiving.